Winter watering

With unseasonably warm temperatures now and in the future forecast, it’s important to give some of your landscape a little attention. Even though landscape plants are dormant and brown, they should be watered periodically.

If you’ve already turned off your sprinklers for the season, we have some simple tips to keep your plants healthy all season.

When to water 

• Water one to two times per month from November to April. 
• Choose a warm winter day with air temperature above 40 degrees and unfrozen soil.
   

What to water 

• It is most important to water newly planted lawns, trees, shrubs and flowers. 
• Established lawn areas and trees, especially those in sunny, windy, or exposed areas should also be a high priority. 
• Do not winter water cacti, succulents, buffalograss, blue grama and very xeriscape plants. 
  
  

How to water 

• Use a hose-end sprinkler or watering wand. Set a timer so you don't overwater.
• Remove the hose from the spigot after watering to prevent freeze damage. 
• Water slowly so it can soak in. 
  
  

It’s not necessary to do a deep watering in winter. That’s because plants don’t use a lot of water when they’re dormant. Water long enough to capture about one-half inch deep of water, and that should be enough to re-hydrate your lawn and trees for several weeks.

By focusing on watering lawn and trees with the highest risk of dehydration, we can use water wisely throughout the year.