Water Landscape Plants Before Winter

First posted on 09-10-2007

Perennial plants need moist soil to be protected from winter damage according to John Hobbs, agriculture and rural development specialist, University of Missouri Extension.

“It’s been a warm, dry fall so consider watering your landscape plants before winter hits,” said Hobbs.

Although all perennial plants will benefit from watering during a dry fall, it is especially important for evergreens and newly planted trees and shrubs.

“A good, deep watering, with moisture reaching at least a foot down into the soil, is much better than several light sprinklings. Those just wet the top portions of the soil,” said Hobbs. “A deep watering will ensure that the majority of roots have access to water.”

Roots that absorb water are killed when the soil temperature reaches 28 degrees Fahrenheit according to Hobbs.

“Roots near the surface do not last long in our southwest Missouri winters,” said Hobbs. “We must rely on deeper roots and provide moisture for them to absorb.”

Depth of watering should be checked with a metal rod or wooden dowel. Either instrument will easily penetrate moist soil but will stop when dry soil is reached.

University of Missouri Extension programs focus on the high-priority needs of Missourians. Each county extension center, with oversight by locally elected and appointed citizens, is your local link to practical education on almost anything.

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