Some plants release small droplets through pores near the edges or tips of leaves in a process called guttation. It often happens at night or early morning, when soil is moist, roots continue absorbing water, and transpiration from leaves is low. These droplets are not necessarily dew: guttation fluid comes from inside the plant.
Guttation is different from dew
Dew forms when water vapor in the air condenses on a cool surface. Guttation comes from the plant’s water transport system. The drops emerge through hydathodes, specialized openings near leaf edges or tips. This is why they may appear in repeated positions rather than coating every exposed surface. [1]
Why drops can appear overnight
During daytime, water evaporates from leaves through stomata in transpiration. At night stomata may be less open, while roots keep absorbing water. Root pressure can push liquid toward leaf margins, where it exits through hydathodes. Moist soil and humid air can favor the process, but it varies by plant and condition. [2]
Should you drink guttation fluid?
No. It can contain dissolved substances from inside the plant, and should not be assumed pure or safe. Guttation is a normal plant process, not evidence that the plant is crying. Learn how plants sense gravity and how photosynthesis uses leaves.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Are drops on leaves always guttation?
No. They may be dew, rain, irrigation, or guttation. Drops at tips before sunrise can be a clue but are not definitive.
What is guttation fluid?
Mostly water, with dissolved substances that vary by plant and growing conditions.
Does guttation mean overwatering?
Not by itself. Moisture can favor guttation, but it is not a standalone diagnosis of plant health.
Sources and evidence
- University of Minnesota — Plants and Water ↗
Explains guttation, hydathodes, root pressure, and plant water movement.
- University of Missouri — Guttation ↗
Describes droplets emerging from leaf hydathodes and distinguishes guttation from dew.
Sources consulted: 2026-10-18. Written with AI assistance and checked against the linked references; not independently reviewed by a subject specialist. Sources do not endorse this article. See our editorial policy.
Revision: Initial editorial draft prepared 18 October 2026; claims are tied to linked sources and retain stated limitations.