Winter watering tips

Winter is here. The irrigation systems in the landscape have been shut down for winter, the garden hose is rolled up and stored away; but wait … we may experience a dry period! Do landscape plants need watering in winter during dry times? Dry air, low precipitation, little soil moisture and fluctuating temperatures (as we have seen this year) may be damaging to trees, shrubs, perennials and lawns if they do not receive supplemental water.

During periods of winter drought, care of landscape plants and lawns need to be considered. Lawns and shrubs may need to be watered during winter dry times. Ensure adequate watering throughout the entire growing season for all trees and shrubs, especially those recently planted. Make sure that the trees and shrubs are well-watered going into the fall. Also, water throughout the winter when the ground is not frozen to help the trees through a dry winter. Winter watering, during dry periods, should occur during the day when the temperature is 40 degrees Fahrenheit or above. Water once or twice per month until spring.

Turf is another plant to take into consideration regarding winter watering. When your grass is dormant, the roots still use water to stay hydrated during the cold months. Periods of drought, even in the winter, can cause the roots to dry up and sometimes die. Water can be applied to turf any time the temperature is above 40 degrees and the soil is not frozen (so that it can soak into the ground). Once the water is applied, the temperatures can drop below freezing and there will be no harm to the lawn.

How much water is needed? First probe the soil using a screwdriver or metal rod to check moisture level. As a general rule of thumb, soak the soil to at least a depth of 4 to 6 inches. This holds true for the lawn, flowers, trees and shrubs. This depth provides moisture to the crowns and a vast majority of the feeder roots. Trees should be soaked more deeply.

Always remember, too much water can be just as detrimental to your plants as not enough. Watering too much or too often, especially in heavy clay soil, can cause water to remain on the roots for an extended time causing root disease.

Winter watering is often overlooked. Stay aware of your plants’ needs year-round, including during the winter months.

If you would like to learn more about taking care of plants, it’s not too late to apply for the 2018 Master Gardener Training Class. To apply, come by the Extension Office to pick up an application or call 501-623-6841 to have an application emailed to you. The classes begin in late January, so you will need to apply as soon as possible. Contact Allen Bates by phone or email abates@ uaex.edu.

Master Gardener

If you have an interest in gardening of any type or would like to learn more about horticulture, plan to attend a Master Gardener meeting at 1 p.m. the third Thursday of each month at Lake Valley Community Church, the public is welcome.

EHC

Interested in joining an existing Extension Homemakers Club in Garland County? It is the largest volunteer organization in the state or form a new EHC club in your community. For information about how you can be involved, call 623-6841 or email Jessica Vincent at jvincent@uaex.edu.

4-H

Those between the ages of 5 and 19, can join 4-H. There is a club for you, or you and a group of friends can organize a club of your own. For information, call Linda Bates at 623-6841, or email lbates@uaex.edu.