Winter Watering Tips for Trees and Shrubs: A Simple Guide
Denver’s majestic trees are a vital part of the city’s charm, but even these giants can get thirsty, especially during the dry winter months. Winter watering should be done 1-2 times per month from late fall into early spring and should be conducted on warm days when temperatures are above 40 degrees Fahrenheit and the soil is thawed. While watering during winter might seem counterintuitive, it’s crucial for their health and survival. Here’s a simple guide to help you keep your Denver trees hydrated and happy throughout the colder season:
Why Winter Watering Matters:
- Active Roots: Even in winter, tree roots continue to absorb water and nutrients for spring growth. Dry soil stresses them, making them vulnerable to disease and pests.
- Foliage Protection: Winter winds can dry out leaves, and without enough moisture, trees may lose them prematurely, impacting their health and aesthetics.
- Deep, Infrequent Watering: Unlike summer watering, winter watering isn’t about frequency, but impact. Aim for deep watering during dry spells (3+ weeks without significant snowfall) to keep roots hydrated and prevent desiccation.
How to Water Deeply:
- Ditch the Sprinkler: Sprinklers often waste water and don’t reach the root zone effectively. Opt for hoses with soaker attachments or deep root watering bags that target the area where most roots reside.
- Slow and Steady Wins the Race: Aim for 10-15 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter, allowing the water to soak in slowly. Avoid saturating the soil, as this can harm the roots.
- Target the Dripline: Water around the outer edge of the branches, where most of the tree’s absorbing roots are located.
Bonus Tips:
- Mulch Matters: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your trees to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and insulate the roots from freezing temperatures. Bonus benefits: Mulching retains moisture, suppresses weeds, and protects roots from freezing. Newly planted trees and evergreens need extra attention.
- New & Evergreen TLC: Newly planted trees and evergreens have less developed root systems and require extra attention during winter. Water them more frequently than mature trees, especially during dry spells.
- Stop Before Spring: Once spring growth begins (usually late February/early March), you can gradually stop winter watering.
- Deep Root Watering: Deep root watering is an irrigation technique that delivers water to the roots of plants, rather than just the topsoil. Deep root watering helps to promote deep rooting, which makes plants more drought tolerant and resistant to pests and diseases. Take a look at our Deep Root Watering services for more information!
Skipping winter watering can lead to:
- Stunted growth
- Increased susceptibility to disease and pests
- Early leaf drop and branch dieback
- Long-term decline and even death
Remember: A little winter TLC goes a long way. By providing deep, infrequent watering during dry periods, you’ll ensure your Denver trees weather the winter and thrive come spring.
Additional Resources:
By following these simple tips, you can help Denver’s leafy giants stay healthy and vibrant throughout the winter months. Let’s work together to keep the Mile High City’s tree-lined streets flourishing for years to come!
Contact us today at (303) 623-8733 (TREE) or send us a request for a Free Estimate. Take a look at our Tree Care services for more information. Our service areas include Centennial, Cherry Hills Village, Denver, Englewood, Golden, Greenwood Village, Highlands Ranch, Lakewood, Littleton, Lone Tree and Wheat Ridge. We look forward to hearing from you!
