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Winter Watering in Colorado: What You Need to Know

Yes — Colorado plants need water in winter. Colorado winters are the driest time of year. Without regular watering, plants — especially evergreens and anything planted in the last two years — can dry out, develop root damage, or die before spring. We recommend watering at least once a month, and ideally twice a month, throughout the winter season.

Why Winter Watering Matters in Colorado

Unlike regions with consistent snow cover, Colorado — especially along the Front Range — often experiences weeks of dry, sunny, and windy winter weather. This combination pulls moisture from plants and soil faster than it can be replenished, even when temperatures are cold.

Key Risks Without Winter Watering

  • Winter Burn in Evergreens: Evergreens lose more moisture through their foliage in winter than during summer. When roots cannot absorb enough from dry or frozen soil, leaves turn brown — a condition called "winter desiccation" or "winter burn."
  • Vulnerable New Plants: Trees and shrubs planted within the last two years have limited root systems and are especially susceptible to drying out. Winter watering is essential to protect your recent landscaping investment.
  • Dry Winters, Not Snowy Ones: Colorado frequently goes 2–3 weeks or more without snow or rain in winter. When that happens, plants require supplemental water to survive.
  • Root Damage from Dry Soil: Even dormant roots need moisture. Dry soil allows cold air to penetrate deeper into the ground, which can cause root damage and, in severe cases, kill plants entirely.

When and How Often to Water

  1. Minimum: Once per month — This is the baseline to keep roots hydrated during dormancy.
  2. Ideal: Twice per month (bi-weekly) — This schedule provides consistent moisture and the best protection against winter desiccation and root damage.
  3. Water midday when possible — Aim for when temperatures are above 40°F and before sunset, so water can absorb into the soil before freezing overnight.
  4. After 2–3 weeks without snow or rain — This is your trigger. Do not wait for visible stress signs — the damage often happens underground first.

Two Types of Winter Watering

We offer two watering methods, and the right choice depends on what you're protecting:

  • Surface Watering

Standard watering applied at the soil surface. Ideal for shrubs, lawn areas, and plants with shallow root systems. Keeps the upper soil layer hydrated and prevents surface roots from drying out.

  • Deep Root Watering

Uses specialized equipment to deliver water directly to the deeper root zone. This is especially important for established trees, which have roots that extend well below the surface and are difficult to hydrate with surface watering alone. Deep root watering ensures the entire root system stays protected through the winter.

Our Winter Service Packages

Our winter packages combine watering with dormant-season maintenance so your property stays protected and tidy all winter long. Both packages include:

  • Ongoing leaf and debris cleanup throughout the entire winter season
  • Tree trimming for any branches that break or become an obstruction due to snow

Standard Package — Monthly Watering

  • Bi-weekly leaf and debris cleanup
  • Monthly surface watering
  • Snow damage tree trimming (as needed)

Premium Package — Bi-Weekly Watering

  • Bi-weekly leaf and debris cleanup
  • Bi-weekly surface watering
  • Bi-weekly deep root watering
  • Snow damage tree trimming (as needed)

Ready to Get Started?

Contact us to schedule your winter watering service — we'll help you choose the right package for your property and get everything set up before the cold sets in.