Wilting can often be reversed, especially if the loss of turgor pressure is not prolonged or severe. The reversal process begins when water supply to the plant is reinstated, either through watering or natural processes like rain. Water absorbed by the roots is transported upwards through the xylem vessels to the leaves and other parts of the plant. As water reaches the cells, it enters the vacuoles, restoring the cell's turgor pressure. This reinstated turgor pressure pushes the cell membrane against the cell wall, regaining the cell's firmness and structure. Consequently, the plant parts, especially the leaves, regain their rigidity and stand upright again. However, it's crucial to note that if a plant remains wilted for an extended period, the damage to cells and tissues may become irreversible, leading to the death of the plant. Therefore, timely intervention is key to reversing the wilting process.

Temporary and permanent wilting in plants differ based on the duration and the reversibility of the wilting process. Temporary wilting occurs when a plant loses turgor pressure during the hottest part of the day but recovers as environmental conditions improve, such as in the evening or when water becomes available. This type of wilting is a natural response to water stress and does not typically cause long-term harm to the plant. The recovery is due to the restoration of water balance, with the plant's roots absorbing water and replenishing the cells. On the other hand, permanent wilting signifies a more severe and often irreversible condition. It occurs when a plant is unable to restore its water balance over a prolonged period. This persistent lack of water leads to the death of cells and tissues, ultimately resulting in the plant's inability to recover, even if water is later provided. Permanent wilting is usually a sign of prolonged drought, severe water stress, or root damage.

Soil type and quality play a significant role in the wilting process due to their impact on water availability and root health. Different soil types have varying capacities for water retention and drainage. For instance, clay soils hold water well but may lead to waterlogging, affecting root function and health. Sandy soils, conversely, drain quickly, potentially leading to quicker drying and insufficient water availability for plants. Both extremes can contribute to wilting: waterlogged soils may cause root rot, reducing water uptake, while sandy soils may not provide enough water, leading to dehydration. Soil quality also impacts wilting. Soils rich in organic matter can retain moisture more effectively and provide better aeration, promoting healthy root growth and efficient water uptake. In contrast, poor-quality soils with limited organic matter or compacted structure can hinder root growth and water absorption, increasing the risk of wilting. Therefore, choosing the right soil type and maintaining soil quality are crucial for preventing wilting and ensuring plant health.

Plant hormones, particularly abscisic acid (ABA), play a crucial role in the wilting process by regulating the plant's response to water stress. When a plant experiences water deficiency, the concentration of ABA in the leaves increases. ABA serves as a signal that triggers various physiological responses to reduce water loss and conserve water. One of the primary actions of ABA is the regulation of stomatal closure. In response to increased ABA levels, stomata close to reduce transpiration and water loss. This hormonal control is vital for the plant's survival during periods of water scarcity. Additionally, ABA can influence root growth and development, enhancing the plant's ability to access water from deeper soil layers. It's important to note that while ABA helps in mitigating water loss, prolonged closure of stomata can also limit carbon dioxide intake for photosynthesis, which can affect the plant's growth and health. Thus, the role of plant hormones like ABA is a critical aspect of the plant's adaptive response to water stress and the wilting process.

The time of day significantly influences the wilting process due to variations in environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and light intensity. During the day, particularly in the afternoon, the higher temperatures and light intensity increase the rate of transpiration. This happens because the stomata, tiny openings on the leaf surface, generally open during the day to allow for gas exchange for photosynthesis. The opening of stomata, however, also leads to increased water loss. If this loss is not compensated by adequate water uptake from the roots, plants may begin to wilt. Conversely, during the night, temperatures usually drop, and stomata often close, reducing water loss and hence, the risk of wilting. In some plants, especially those adapted to arid conditions, stomatal opening can occur at night to minimise water loss, a behaviour known as crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM). This adaptation further demonstrates how the diurnal cycle affects wilting in different plant species.