10/30/2026
Don’t put that hose away just yet! Watering season isn’t over—even when the leaves have fallen.
Continue watering your trees, shrubs, and perennials as needed until the ground freezes. Cooler weather means plants use less water, but dry soil can still leave them stressed heading into winter.
Roots are still working. Even after growth above ground slows down, roots can continue growing while the soil remains warm enough. Moisture supports that growth, especially for newly planted trees and shrubs.
Evergreens keep losing moisture. Their needles and leaves release water throughout winter. Cold winds and winter sunshine can dry them out, while frozen soil limits their ability to replace that moisture. Going into winter well hydrated helps reduce winter burn and browning.
Water slowly and deeply. Check the soil a few inches down, including the root ball of new plantings. If it’s dry, soak the root zone slowly. Aim for moist soil, not soggy soil, and adjust for rainfall.
A frosty morning doesn’t mean the ground is frozen! Keep checking soil moisture until the ground freezes, and give your plants a strong start for spring.
