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Winter Wellness: Why Your Trees Need a Drink Even When It’s Cold

By Nature’s Way Landscapes

There is a unique stillness to a Colorado winter. The snow settles on the branches, the mountains glow in the distance, and the garden seems to be taking a long, well-deserved nap. It’s the perfect time for us to slow down, cozy up by the fire, and enjoy the sanctuary we’ve built from the warmth of our living rooms.

But while your landscape looks asleep, there is a hidden struggle happening just beneath the soil.

One of the most common questions we get from homeowners along the Front Range is, "Do I really need to water my trees in the winter?" It’s a natural question—after all, the sprinklers are blown out and the hoses are put away. However, the truth is that our dry, high-altitude climate doesn't stop affecting your plants just because it's January.

Helping your trees stay hydrated now is the secret to a lush, vibrant backyard when the snow melts. Here is why picking up the hose is the best way to protect your investment.

1. The Roots Are Still Awake (And Thirsty)

It’s easy to assume that because the leaves have fallen, the whole tree is "off." But biology tells a different story. While the canopy is dormant to survive the freezing temperatures, the root system is often still wide awake.

In Colorado, tree roots remain active as long as the soil temperature is above 40°F.

This happens often during our sunny winter days. Roots constantly search for moisture to replenish what the dry air takes away. If the soil stays bone-dry for weeks at a time, those roots can dehydrate. By watering your trees during dry spells, you ensure they have the energy to leaf out beautifully in spring.

2. Combating the "Colorado Sponge" Effect

We love our 300 days of sunshine, but that intense sun, paired with warm Chinook winds, acts like a thirsty sponge. It pulls moisture right out of plant tissues, even in the dead of winter.

This is especially critical for evergreens like Spruce, Pine, and Fir trees. Since they keep their needles year-round, they are constantly losing water. If the ground is frozen or too dry, the roots can't replace that water fast enough. This leads to winter burn—that rusty brown discoloration you often see on trees in Denver and Boulder neighborhoods in April.

3. A Stronger Sanctuary for Summer

Think of winter watering as an insurance policy for your landscape. A well-hydrated tree is physically stronger. Water pressure inside the tree helps it support heavy snow loads without snapping branches.

Furthermore, a thirsty tree is a stressed tree. Drought stress weakens your landscape’s natural defenses, making it more inviting to pests like bark beetles when the weather warms up. By maintaining soil moisture now, you are protecting the peace and privacy of your outdoor retreat.

Quick FAQ: Winter Watering in Colorado

Q: How often should I water my trees in winter?

A: A good rule of thumb for the Front Range is once or twice a month. Wait for a day when the air temperature is above 40°F and there is no snow cover on the ground.

Q: How much water do they need?

A: Aim for about 10 gallons of water for every inch of the tree's trunk diameter. Slow and steady is key—let the hose trickle so the water soaks deep into the root zone rather than running off the frozen surface.

Q: What time of day is best?

A: Water early in the day (between 10 AM and 2 PM). This gives the water time to soak in before the temperatures drop below freezing at night.

Simple Steps for a Thriving Landscape

At Nature’s Way Landscapes, we believe your backyard should be a place of restoration—a retreat that feels natural and effortless. Caring for your trees in winter doesn't have to be a chore; it’s a simple, grounding way to connect with nature during the dormant season.

The Golden Rule: When we haven't had snow for a couple of weeks and the temperature is above 40°F, give your trees a drink.

Need Help Protecting Your Sanctuary?

We understand that dragging hoses through the snow isn't everyone's idea of a relaxing weekend. If you want to ensure your landscape thrives without the hassle, our team is here to help.

Our Winter Plant Health Care program is designed to give your trees exactly what they need to survive the dry season, so you can simply look forward to a green, blooming spring.

Contact Nature's Way Landscapes Today

Reference: For more technical details on winter watering, we recommend this guide by the Colorado State University Extension.