If you’ve ever experienced the discouragement of lawn winter kill or dead landscape plants in spring, try winter watering. Even though most landscape plants are dormant and brown, they need to be watered periodically. Dry winter months often kill plants through dehyddration. By winter watering, your lawn and landscape plants will have a much better chance of greening up beautifully when the weather starts to warm up in the Spring.
When you get ready to do winter watering, choose a warm day with a temperature above 40 degrees F and unfrozen soil. Water one to two times per month starting in November and ending when you start to resume your normal watering routine in the sprin when the new roots are forming. Water during mid-day so it can soak in before it freezes in the evening.
Its most important to water newly planted lawns, trees, shrubs, and flowers. Established shrubs, flowers, ornamental grasses and groundcovers will also benefit. DO NOT winter water cacti, succulents, buffalograss, blue grama and very xeric plants.
Since automatic sprinkler systems should be shut off by now, use a hose- end sprinkler or watering wand during the winter. Remember to remove the hose from the spigot after watering to prevent freeze damage. Water at a slow pace so it has time to soak in and prevent puddles. A good way to measure how long to measure for is to put a cup. out to catch some water. Stop watering when you have 0.5-1″ of water in the cups.
*Spring is just around the corner!! Call us today to schedule your sprinkler system turn on.