Winter Irrigation and Watering Tips

It seems like we shouldn’t have to water the garden in the winter, doesn’t it? Just turn off the controller in the garage and don’t bother with the pesky drip or sprinkler systems until spring. If it only it was that simple.

It’s winter time, are you thinking about watering your lawn, trees, and plants? If not, you should be! Winter watering can be the difference between life and death to the greenery around your home, even if you don’t see the effects till much later. When spring comes around everything may look healthy but within a couple months your beautiful trees and shrubs have a much higher risk of insects, disease, and even partially or fully dying off.

We are located in the Sierra Nevada foothills and get a combo of winter weather from rain to snow and ice. We are located about 200 feet below the snow level and surprisingly, the snow sticks once or twice a year. Thus we always have to be aware of the weather, it changes constantly around here. I’ve compiled a few helpful tips that I’ve learned over the years through trial and error.

How To Selectively Water Plants In The Winter

• If you experience freezing weather only occasionally (like locations below the snow level or close to the sea) and there has been insufficient rain or snowfall, water deeply a day or so before freezing weather is forecast. Be sure to water the entire root system.

• Remember, when a plant soil dries out in freezing temperatures, there’s a greater chance of it dying. I know this may sound strange but water acts as an insulation for the roots. Without water, the cold wind chills and dries out the roots.

• Keep an eye on evergreen plants. Evergreen plants are not dormant like the deciduous plants and still need watering in the winter. Test soil with your finger 4-6 inches below the surface for the soil moisture.

• Be extra attentive to recently planted bare roots, and other newly transplanted trees and shrubs. The roots are less established and the churned up soil can allow the cold air to penetrate deeper to the roots. Water until plants is established. Water creates heat in the plant’s roots. Imagine water acting as a warm blanket to the roots.

• Water when the air temperature is above 40 degrees Fahrenheit and avoid watering when there’s snow or ice on the ground.

• Water early in the day, so the plant’s roots have time to absorb the water before the chilling night’s temperatures.
• Mulch; mulching can conserve moisture and also helps with the pesky weeds.

Be mindful not to over water. Once or twice a month should be enough. Unless freezing temperatures are predicted and have little precipitation. Keep in mind that the plants will not be able to absorb water fast as they do in the growing season, and the cool soil can easily become soggy.

Apply the information above to your lawn, trees, and shrubs this winter to help protect them from damage later on in the year. If you have any questions on specific needs for your home give your local nursery a call, or leave a comment below to assist you in finding the information you need!

Helpful Winter Irrigation Maintenance Tips

It’s to your advantage to have your irrigation systems well maintained going in fall and winter. There is nothing better than having those systems in good condition when they are turned on in the spring. Also if the winter is dry, (like a drought season), your irrigation system may need to be operated.

Here are four helpful tips to get your system ready for the cold temperature and the rain.

1. In fall, flush all drip irrigation lines, removing any dirt and settlement accumulated during the growing seasons.
2. Before the weather drops to freezing temperatures, drain your drip system before shutting down for the winter season. This will prevent the trapped water from freezing, potentially causing damage to the system.
3. Insulate valves, hose nubs, and any exposed pipes.
4. Bring your battery operated timers indoors to protect them from freezing and cracking due to the harsh weather conditions. If you are unable to disconnect the battery operated timers, you can always place an irrigation cover over it. Protecting it from the weather elements.

A well-maintained irrigation system will provide the correct amount of water at the proper time to all your plants. Be mindful of the weather and water wisely to keep your evergreens thriving.