Are you thirsty? Most likely your plants are too!
The Denver metro area has been subjected to one of the warmest/ driest winters on record.
- October 2025 total precipitation was .14″ – average 1.24″
- November 2025 total precipitation was .07″ – average .62″
- December 2025 total precipitation was .50″ – average .61″
- January 2026 total precipitation was .52″ – average .52″
So we are gaining ground but experienced an extremely dry fall season. We’ll see what Mother Nature has instore for us the rest of the winter, but in the mean time, our landscapes would appreciate a drink. Winter watering is advisable with especially late planted perennials, bare root plants, and perennials located in windy or southwest exposures. Also, newly planted trees, shrubs, lawns, woody plants, and plants with shallow root systems (i.e. groundcovers).
The result of long, dry periods during fall and winter is injury or death to parts of plant root systems. Affected plants may appear perfectly normal and resume growth in the spring using stored food energy. But plants may be weakened and all or parts may die in late spring or summer when temperatures rise. Weakened plants also may be subject to insect and disease problems.
Use These Watering Guidelines
When to Water
Water only when air temperatures are above 40 degrees F. Apply water at mid-day so it will have time to soak in before possible freezing at night. Plants receiving reflected heat from buildings, walls and fences are more subject to damage. The low angle of winter sun makes this more likely on south or west exposures. Windy sites result in faster drying of sod and plants and require additional water. Water is the best treatment to prevent turf injury.
How to Water
Methods of watering trees include: sprinklers, deep-root fork or needle. Be especially careful with soil needles, also known as deep root feeders. Inserting these away from the plant so as not to injure roots. Water the area under the branches in at least twelve sites for a medium sized or larger tree. Disperse water sites evenly within the circle bounded by the dripline with a small hoe-end sprinkler.
For new trees, water all four sides at least 3 feet from the trunk (stem)., soaker hose or soft spray wand. Apply water to many locations under the dripline and beyond if possible.
How Much to Water
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. Decrease amounts to account for precipitation. Water within the dripline of the shrub and around the base.
As a general survival rule, apply 10 gallons of water for each diameter inch of the tree. For example, a two-inch diameter tree needs 20 gallons per watering. Use a ruler to measure your tree’s diameter at 6″ above ground level.
Use Mulch to Hold Water & Provide Consistent Soil Temps
Be sure to mulch trees and shrubs to retain moisture. Place a layer of mulch 3”-4” deep around the base, but leave a 6” distance between the trunk/lower branches and the start of the mulch. Perennials benefit from this practice, too! Apply the mulch, if not already placed, before the hard freeze. This will alleviate small creatures from making their homes in the mulch while our weather is unseasonably warm. Mulch for perennials can be placed 1”-2” away from base of the plant.
