Difference Between Transpiration and Guttation

Transpiration
Definition:The loss of water in the form of vapours from the living tissues of aerial parts of the plant is termed as transpiration.

“Transpiration is a necessary evil”  Curtis

1. Water loss in the form of vapour

2. Occurs through stomata, cuticle or lenticels

3. Usually occurs during day time

4. Water vapours are pure and free of dissolved substances

5. It is a controlled phenomenon

6. Universal phenomenon and occurs in plant

7. The stomata of leaves become closed or open  according to the need, usually they remain open during day and closed during night.

8. It is controlled by the guard cells

9. Root pressure is not involved in transpiration.

Guttation: Loss of water in the form of liquid from the uninjured margins of the leaves is called guttation.



1. Water loss in the form of water drops

2. Occurs through hydathodes*

3. Usually occurs during night

4. Guttation water has many dissolved substances

5. It is an uncontrolled phenomenon

6. It occurs only in some plants like grasses, Colocasia, tomato etc

7. The hydathodes remain open whole day and night

8. It is not controlled by guard cells

9. Guttation takes place due to the development of root pressure

* Hydathodes are special type of stomata called water stomata through which guttation takes place.

Learn more: Difference between Transpiration and Evaporation