How can over-irrigation negatively impact crop yield?

Over-irrigation can lead to several detrimental effects on crops, with one of the most significant being the promotion of root rot and nutrient leaching. When soil becomes overly saturated with water, it creates conditions that are conducive to the development of root rot, a condition that affects the health of the plant's root system. Root rot occurs because excessive moisture can suffocate roots, depriving them of oxygen, and create an environment where pathogens thrive.

In addition, over-irrigation can cause nutrient leaching. This happens when excess water moves through the soil, washing away essential nutrients that plants need to grow. While plants generally require water to absorb nutrients, too much water can disrupt this balance, leading to nutrient deficiencies that further impair crop development and yield. This dual effect—both root health and nutrient availability—is critical in understanding how over-irrigation can negatively affect crop yield.