It is one of the recurring frustrations of the Glitch UX that one is able to "interact" with things that one is not, ultimately, able to interact with at all. Unscoopable jellies, for example, among many others. (At least with pigs and chickens one can usually "rename" them, if nothing else.)
And, in the case where only one action is possible, it would be helpful to just ask for a confirmation on that one action.
I still do extra tree petting and extra watering if it is available. Still earns iMG and boosts mood as well as the chance for a currant or bonus drop.
That's a good point, I hadn't really thought of that. Maybe it could just turn back on after that time has passed (most people will have moved on from that area probably.)