Oxygen must be absorbed through the roots. However, some plants are adapted to wetter soil conditions. Conversely, there are few plants that thrive in excessively dry conditions. Water is essential for dissolving nutrients in the soil so they may be absorbed by the roots. Plants that grow well during summer droughts are becoming increasingly popular in areas where water shortages occur.
Irrigation is an option for some dry sites.
However, it can be expensive and labor-intensive and must be applied on a regular basis. Planning a landscape with differing zones of watering needs is a practical approach. Place plants with similar moisture needs together to simplify irrigation and avoid incompatibility problems. Drying winds and reflected heat from buildings cause desiccation, especially during winter when the ground is frozen and moisture is unavailable to plants. Prolonged desiccation can result in death of individual cells and plant tissue.