Don’t count on Mother Nature and the hope of a big snow to get your trees and perennials through the winter this year.
Snowfall usually provides far less moisture than rain, and we don't have to tell you that we're in a particularly concerning dry spell right now, so you’ll want to supplement with some winter watering for your trees, shrubs, and perennials.
Water long enough so that the soil is thoroughly soaked without run-off. Be sure to water areas in high sun exposure which tend to suffer winter kill.
Water your sloped areas using cycle-and-soak: several shorter periods of watering to let the moisture soak in without running off. Dry winter conditions can also attract turf mites, but proper watering can deter them.
If you aren't able to hand-water your landscape this winter, hire a landscape pro to do the work for you. It's a good investment in the long-term value of your property.
Keep watering even after the system is winterized. Don’t water when a hard freeze is expected to save damage to your plants.
Water long enough so that the soil is thoroughly soaked without run-off. Be sure to water areas in high sun exposure which tend to suffer winter kill.
Water your sloped areas using cycle-and-soak: several shorter periods of watering to let the moisture soak in without running off. Dry winter conditions can also attract turf mites, but proper watering can deter them.
If you aren't able to hand-water your landscape this winter, hire a landscape pro to do the work for you. It's a good investment in the long-term value of your property.
Keep watering even after the system is winterized. Don’t water when a hard freeze is expected to save damage to your plants.
In dry winters, all shrubs benefit from winter watering from October through March. Apply 5 gallons two times per month for a newly planted shrub. Small established shrubs (less than 3 feet tall) should receive 5 gallons monthly. Large established shrubs (more than 6 feet) require 18 gallons on a monthly basis.
Trees: In Colorado during winter, you should water trees with about 10 gallons of water for each inch of tree trunk diameter, typically watering once or twice a month during dry spells. Apply water to the "drip line" which is the area directly under the tree's branches (not trunk) where most roots are located.
More Tips
Done correctly, winter watering can prevent browning, dieback, and even plant loss — making it one of the most important (and often overlooked) garden tasks in Colorado.
- Water when the ground isn’t frozen
Winter watering is only effective when soil temperatures are above freezing. Choose a mild day (above 40°F) so water can soak in and reach roots instead of freezing on the surface. - Trees and shrubs need it most
Established trees, shrubs, and evergreens are especially vulnerable to winter desiccation. Evergreens continue to lose moisture through their needles all winter and benefit greatly from periodic deep watering. - Water deeply but infrequently
Aim for a slow, deep soak every three weeks during dry periods with no snow cover. This encourages roots to stay hydrated without creating ice problems. - Midday is the safest time
Water late morning to early afternoon so moisture can absorb before temperatures drop again in the evening, reducing the risk of ice damage on walkways and plants. - Mulch makes winter watering more effective
A 2–4 inch layer of mulch helps soil retain moisture, moderates temperature swings, and protects roots, making each winter watering more beneficial.
Done correctly, winter watering can prevent browning, dieback, and even plant loss — making it one of the most important (and often overlooked) garden tasks in Colorado.