-too negative water potential is avoided by (partially) closing stomata

-reduce the water consumption, lower flow rate

->less negative potential

->less danger of embolisms, but also less CO2 intake and photosynthesis

This is the main reason why drought stress (water limitation) reduces plant growth

-trees grow tall because of competition for light

-but there are limits for height growth

-the tallest trees are conifers about 100m

-usually conifers grow at places with a higher humidity (low transpiration)

A branch in great height can only use very little water - photosynthesis becomes minimal