Herbewaterd

Herbewaterd is a term used in horticulture and soil science to describe the act or result of reintroducing water to a substrate that has become dry or water-deficient. The term derives from Dutch her-, meaning again or renewed, combined with water and the past participle -ed, effectively meaning re-watering.

In practice, herbewaterd encompasses techniques from rapid rewetting after drought to controlled, gradual irrigation aimed at restoring soil moisture without causing waterlogging. It often involves monitoring soil moisture with sensors, using irrigation scheduling, and employing soil amendments that improve water retention.

Applications include greenhouse production, field crops after drought, restoration of degraded land, and seed germination protocols.

Benefits include improved germination and plant vigor, reduced soil crusting, and better resilience to abiotic stress.

Risks involve leaching of nutrients, salt accumulation in the soil, and the possibility of root rot if water is provided too quickly; there can also be disturbance of soil structure in certain soil types.

Related concepts include rehydration, soil moisture, irrigation management, and drought recovery. The use of the term may vary regionally and is not universally standardized; some writers may simply refer to rew atering or soil rehydration.