How do I effectively water my older trees and shrubs this winter since we are not allowed to use sprinklers?
A: Just because your trees and shrubs have dropped their leaves doesn't mean you can forget about watering them! Colorado's dry winter air, low precipitation, and occasional warm spells can leave the soil surprisingly dry, especially along the Front Range.
You don't need sprinklers to water your landscape effectively. A garden hose, a slow trickle of water, some organic mulch (keep it several inches away from the trunks of trees), and a little attention to the weather can make all the difference.
1. Choose the right winter watering days
Water when the temperature is above 40°F, preferably during the late morning or early afternoon.
Choose a day when the soil is not frozen and the water can soak into the ground.
Avoid watering immediately before a hard freeze if the water could run onto sidewalks or driveways and create ice.
Check the forecast and soil rather than watering on a rigid schedule.
In the Denver area, October through March is generally the winter watering season to pay attention to, especially during extended dry periods.
2. Use a regular garden hose — no sprinkler allowed. Move around the tree, applying water slowly to the soil in multiple spots. This is a practical method if you are watering young or newly planted trees and shrubs. Water will seep through mulch but you'll need less if you water under the mulch. Same goes for soaker hoses.
You can also use a soaker hose. Lay it in a broad circle or several loops under the branches and underneath mulch. Run the water slowly enough that the water soaks in rather than running off. Check your local water provider's rules to confirm that your particular setup is allowed.
Adjust for rainfall, snowmelt, soil conditions, and any water the tree receives from surrounding irrigation.
Read our Q & As with Keith Funk answering common Colorado gardening questions here. See his website: gardenwiseguy.com and hear him on the Garden Wise Radio Show.
