With below normal precipitation for the month of January, and warm temperatures through the middle of February, it’s a good idea to give your trees and shrubs a drink. Many areas are suffering from sparse snow cover, low soil moisture and low humidity. Conditions like these can weaken or damage plant root systems. Evergreens, south and west-facing lawns, plants near south and west-facing walls and newly installed plants are most susceptible to dry winter conditions.
To give your trees and shrubs a good start on the new growing season, use these guidelines:
- Water when air temps are above 40 F.
- Use a soil needle, deep root fork, sprinkler, or spray wand
- Apply water to many locations around the dripline
- Insert the fork or needle no deeper than 8″
- Apply 10 gallons of water per inch of tree trunk diameter measured at knee-height.
- Apply 5 gallons of water twice a month to newly planted shrubs
- Small established shrubs need 5 gallons per month
- Large shrubs (over 6 feet) need 18 gallons of water per month.
Your garden will thank you with a hydrated, healthy start to the season!