How to Get Water From a Plant

You can get water from a plant using the transpiration and condensation method, often necessary for survival in the wild.

This method involves using a clear plastic bag to collect the water vapor released by a plant through a natural process called transpiration. When trapped inside the bag, this vapor cools and condenses into liquid water that you can collect.

The Transpiration/Condensation Method

This technique is effective, especially with plants that are actively transpiring, which is often the case when they are exposed to sunlight.

Steps to Collect Water

Based on the method shown in the provided reference, here's how you can collect water from a plant:

1. Select the Right Plant Branch: Choose a leafy branch or cluster of leaves on a plant that is "sitting in the Sun." Sunlight encourages the plant to release water vapor.
2. Prepare the Bag: Use a clear plastic bag. Ensure it has no holes.
3. Wrap the Bag: "Wrap this bag around" the selected leaves or branch. Make sure the leaves are fully enclosed within the bag.
4. Secure the Bag: "Just tie it up around the tree like that" or secure the opening of the bag tightly around the branch using string, cordage, or even twisting the bag itself. This creates a sealed environment.
5. Wait for Condensation: Leave the bag in place, preferably for several hours, allowing the sun to warm the leaves. The plant will transpire, releasing water vapor into the bag. The cooler plastic surface will cause the vapor to condense into droplets.
6. Collect the Water: Over time, enough water will collect in the bottom of the bag. Carefully untie or loosen the bag and pour the collected water into a container.

Key Considerations

• Sunlight: The process works best when the plant is in direct sunlight, which promotes transpiration.
• Clear Bag: A clear bag allows sunlight to reach the leaves and lets you see the water collecting.
• Tight Seal: A good seal is crucial to prevent the water vapor from escaping.
• Type of Plant: Lush, green plants tend to yield more water than dry or woody ones. Avoid poisonous plants.
• Time: It can take several hours to collect a usable amount of water, depending on the plant, temperature, and sunlight.

Practical Tips

Here's a summary of the method's key elements:

This method is a reliable way to obtain small amounts of water directly from plants when other sources are unavailable.