Winter Watering Tips for Colorado Trees and Shrubs  

Winter can be a challenging time for trees and shrubs throughout Colorado’s Front Range and surrounding areas. The dry air mixed with little precipitation can leave trees and shrubs vulnerable to stress or damage. Winters don’t offer trees enough soil moisture to maintain healthy roots which is why supplemental water is so important. Imagine getting gallons of water in one day, to then not get any water for the next month. One way to help them stay healthy during the winter months is through deep root watering.  

What is Deep-Root Watering? 

Deep root watering is a method of injecting water directly into the soil of your trees and shrubs that targets their root systems deep below the surface. The main goal is that the water reaches the root zone efficiently, rather than just wetting the surface. In Colorado, this is the most beneficial and efficient method of tree watering during winter.  

How Does Deep Watering Work?  

Deep root watering can be done using tools like soaker hoses, deep root watering stakes, sprinklers, or even soft spray wands. The key is to get water down to the tree roots, around a depth of 2 to 10 inches in the critical root zone where it’s needed most. When using a deep root fork, avoid going any deeper than 8 inches into the soil.  

The Benefits of Deep Root Watering for Your Colorado Trees and Shrubs  

Winter watering is crucial to protecting tree health and plant health in your Colorado landscaping. Deep watering provides many benefits to plants during harsh winter weather, especially for newly planted trees.  

Preventing Drought Stress 

Even in the winter, our trees and shrubs have watering needs. Colorado winters can be dry, and the cold air can cause moisture evaporation from the soil. Without enough water, plants can become drought-stressed, making them more susceptible to diseases and pest infestations. Deep root watering ensures that your plants have access to the soil moisture they need during Colorado drought conditions, helping them remain healthy and happy.  

Protection Against Freezing 

Deep root watering can also provide a protective barrier against freezing temperatures. Enough soil moisture around the tree roots can help prevent the roots from freezing. Frozen roots can cause severe damage to plants, so keeping them hydrated is crucial. 

Stronger and Deeper Root Growth 

Regular deep root watering encourages the development of a strong root system. When soil conditions are dry or frozen, plants will send their roots deeper into the soil in search of moisture. This not only helps the plant access more nutrients but also makes them more resilient during drought conditions. 

Conserves Water 

Deep root watering is efficient because it delivers water directly to the root zone. This approach reduces water waste from runoff or evaporation on the surface, making it a more eco-friendly route for Colorado tree care. 

Promotes Overall Plant and Tree Health 

Keeping your trees and shrubs hydrated throughout the winter supports their overall health and longevity. Healthy plants are more resistant to pests and diseases, and they’ll be better prepared to thrive once spring arrives. 

Winter Watering Tips for Colorado Trees 

Here are some helpful tips and takeaways from the Colorado State University Extension for the best winter tree watering:  

• Water should be applied at the most critical part of the root zone within the dripline. 
• Only water when air and soil temperatures are above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.  
• Mulch can be used to conserve soil moisture for woody plants in your landscape.  
• Trees need 10 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter. (2-inch trunk diameter needs 20 gallons of water per session.) 

Protect Your Colorado Landscape with Integrated Lawn Care’s Winter Watering Program 

Homeowners in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas can call Integrated Lawn Care for professional tree and shrub care. We offer a winter watering service that includes a monthly application of deep root watering for your trees and shrubs from November to March. To add a little extra benefit, we add humates to our liquid solution. Tree health can suffer greatly when not receiving enough water during harsh winters and our winter watering program is a great resource to protect the trees and woody plants in your Colorado landscape. We also offer additional tree care and lawn care services including weed control and fertilization, bark beetle control, perimeter pest control, and winter mite suppression in the Greater Colorado Springs area. Established in 2001, our service spans throughout Colorado Springs, Fountain, Monument, Palmer Lake, Peyton, Security-Widefield, Falcon, Black Forest, and surrounding areas. Contact us today for a free quote!