Hydraulic lift is the passive movement of water from roots into drier soil layers, facilitated by the absorption of water from moister soil layers. This phenomenon has been observed in a limited number of species (27 herbs, grasses, shrubs, and trees) but is not restricted to specific regions or species. It primarily occurs at night when transpiration is reduced, allowing water to be released into the upper soil layers, which can then be absorbed and transpired the next day. This process can significantly enhance water movement through the soil-plant-atmosphere system, particularly under high atmospheric demand. Hydraulic lift also provides a source of water for neighboring plants and can improve nutrient availability and microbial processes in the rhizosphere. Additionally, it may prolong fine-root activity by keeping them hydrated. The direction of water movement can be downward or horizontal, depending on the soil water potential gradient. The historical evidence for hydraulic lift includes laboratory experiments demonstrating water transfer between soil compartments and direct measurements of water efflux from roots. These findings suggest that hydraulic lift is a widespread phenomenon with significant ecological implications.Hydraulic lift is the passive movement of water from roots into drier soil layers, facilitated by the absorption of water from moister soil layers. This phenomenon has been observed in a limited number of species (27 herbs, grasses, shrubs, and trees) but is not restricted to specific regions or species. It primarily occurs at night when transpiration is reduced, allowing water to be released into the upper soil layers, which can then be absorbed and transpired the next day. This process can significantly enhance water movement through the soil-plant-atmosphere system, particularly under high atmospheric demand. Hydraulic lift also provides a source of water for neighboring plants and can improve nutrient availability and microbial processes in the rhizosphere. Additionally, it may prolong fine-root activity by keeping them hydrated. The direction of water movement can be downward or horizontal, depending on the soil water potential gradient. The historical evidence for hydraulic lift includes laboratory experiments demonstrating water transfer between soil compartments and direct measurements of water efflux from roots. These findings suggest that hydraulic lift is a widespread phenomenon with significant ecological implications.