Learn how and when to water your garden in the winter.
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You may think the onlywinter gardening taskis perusing seed catalogs and dreaming of summer blossoms.
But monitoring garden moisture levels is a year-round job.
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While most plants are dormant during winter, they still need water to survive.
Learn more about winter gardening and thewatering needs of your plants.
Dormancy is triggered by shorter days, sun angles, and cooler temperatures.
The plant’s photosynthesis, respiration, and metabolic enzymes slow along with its water requirements.
However, the roots do require moisture to prevent damage that affects the health of the plant.
Why Winter Watering is Important
As a gardener, you must also be a part-time meteorologist.
A rainfall gauge is the easiest way to keep tabs on moisture levels.
Or, use a soil moisture meter if the ground isn’t frozen or covered with snow.
Stick a long screwdriver into the soil.
If it goes in easily, watering is not necessary.
If pushing the screwdriver into the soil is difficult, it’s time to water.
Keeping all newly-placed plants hydrated and healthy will pay off when temperatures rise.
Don’t neglect established plantings and keep checking moisture levels.
Keep this tip in mind, placing mulch around plants will help the soil retain moisture.
Outdoor container plants require more frequent watering, usually weekly, than in-ground plants.
This allows the water to soak directly into the soil and helps prevent run-off and excessively wet foliage.
Water at midday to prevent the formation of ice from nighttime temperatures.
A watering wand attached to a hose works well to reach the roots of plants.
Slow, steady water tool is more effective than quick overhead sprays.
Freezing temperatures can cause ice to form and crack glass tubes.
If you see standing water in your garden, you are probably overwatering.
Avoid root rot by testing the soil before you water, providing adequate drainage, and reducing watering frequency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Garden hoses should be drained and stored indoors during freezing temperatures.
Use a rain gauge to be sure that you aren’t overwatering.
