One of the biggest questions homeowners have about their landscaping is how to keep trees healthy during the winter. When and how often to water is a primary concern, they have. South Coast Outdoor Services has practical advice on how to water your trees in the winter months.

Climate Considerations

The first thing to consider about watering is where you live and the winter climate. Watering is a different concern in Mobile than in colder parts of the nation where it snows frequently. Mobile’s average temperature through the winter months is between 42- and 66-degrees Fahrenheit.

The rainy months are from mid-June through August. The chance of rain every day from October through April is only 20-30%. These are the months with the lowest humidity. These dryer conditions mean that it is vital to keep your trees watered to keep them as healthy as possible.

How Often to Water Trees in Winter

Water is an insulator and protects the plant cells from damage during cold weather. Trees that go dormant during winter do not need to be watered as often as during the growing season. You can water your trees about one or two times a month until the spring growing season begins. You should stick to this schedule until the first leaves appear in spring. With evergreens, you should continue watering throughout winter as usual.

How Much Should You Water

Trees like long, deep watering any time of year, including winter. This is especially true for younger trees. As a general rule, it is suggested that you apply about 10 gallons of water for each inch in diameter of the trunk. The diameter should be measured six inches above the ground. This means that a small, one-inch sapling needs 10 gallons of water. A tree that is 12 inches in diameter needs about 120 gallons of water. Still, the larger tree will have deeper roots to take advantage of natural water sources.

Why Water Trees in Winter?

Root damage is often the cause of damage that leads to those dead branches that will require trimming and pruning in the spring. Providing trees with proper watering in the winter can help prevent root damage. The goal should be to get the water at least 12-inches below ground where the trees have access to it.

Watering your trees in the winter is the best thing you can do to ensure your trees survive and are the healthiest they can be in the spring. Contact South Coast Outdoor Service in Mobile, AL, for advice on taking care of your trees. Ask us about a tree inspection to ensure they are as healthy as they can be before winter sets in.