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If we are lucky, this winter it will snow off and on with mild temperatures in between. Mother nature will be watering the yard for us. But in the event that the rain and snow levels aren’t quite what the garden needs, then you need to do some supplemental watering over the winter.
Believe it or not, lack of winter watering is the most common cause of plant loss through the winter, not freezing temperatures. If properly cared for, cold-hardy plants can make it through brutally cold weather. They are adaptable, but they have to have water.
Dormant plants still need moisture to maintain their physiological and biochemical changes that make them cold tolerant. The rule of thumb is to water thoroughly once every 2-3 weeks through the fall. Then depending on the amount of precipitation and severity of cold temperatures, keep up this watering schedule throughout the winter months.
Though it may look like nothing is really happening in the garden, plants are busy all throughout the winter months. They spend the winter producing high concentrations of soluble organic molecules. Water within the cells is essential for these processes to occur. Water also helps maintain the elasticity of the protoplasm (the liquid interior of a cell). This is what makes a plant remain resilient during freezing temperatures
Basically, all we really need to know is watering is essential to assure that roots won’t try out.
Water during the warmest time of the day (mid-day) so the moisture has time to soak into the ground before freezing again at night. Even if soil is frozen, it will absorb water, often dissolving the ice enough to help aerate the ground.
Don’t forget to water the spring flowering bulbs in your yard. It is important to irrigate them as well as the woody shrubs, trees and perennials. Throughout the winter is when the roots form and grow. Occasional deep soakings during a dry spring when the flowers and foliage emerge is also necessary for a good show of flowers. Prolonged dryness from fall through spring will result in a poor showing of flowers the following spring.
Just remember your garden is a living entity year round and if we get snow and rain this winter, great. If not, give your garden a touch of extra moisture and come springtime it will reward you with healthy, strong and happy plants!
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