Final answer:
To increase hydraulic conductivity (K) and drain spacing, you can increase the diameter of xylem vessels and increase the distance between drains in a drainage system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hydraulic conductivity, represented by the symbol K, is the ability of a material to transmit water. To increase K, two factors need to be considered: increasing the diameter of the xylem vessels and increasing the drain spacing.
Increasing the diameter of the xylem vessels allows for a greater flow of water, leading to an increase in hydraulic conductivity. This is because a larger stem diameter permits a larger number of small vessels, which increases the rate of flow of water.
Increasing drain spacing also helps to increase hydraulic conductivity. Drain spacing refers to the distance between drains in a drainage system. By increasing the drain spacing, more water can flow through the system, resulting in higher hydraulic conductivity.