Winter Watering

Stauffer Lawn & Landscape

Important Tips to Protect Your Plants

Preparing your plants for winter starts with proper soil moisture. As temperatures drop, it’s essential that perennial plants enter the season with adequately hydrated soil. In regions like Kansas, where dry conditions are common, plants can already be under significant stress heading into winter. Providing water in the fall helps reduce that stress and improves the chances of survival. Without sufficient moisture, some plants may not make it through winter, while others may appear healthy in early spring but decline once summer heat arrives.

While all perennials benefit from fall watering, evergreens are particularly vulnerable because they continue to lose moisture through their foliage. Newly planted trees and shrubs are also at higher risk due to their limited root systems. Even plants installed within the past two to three years are more sensitive to dry conditions compared to fully established landscapes. For best results, water deeply so moisture reaches at least 12 inches below the surface, rather than applying frequent, shallow watering.

Deep watering is critical because it ensures that water reaches the root zones that sustain plant health. Surface-level roots are more susceptible to freezing temperatures and often do not survive harsh winters. As soil temperatures drop—especially below 28°F—these shallow roots can be damaged, making it essential to rely on deeper, well-hydrated roots to carry plants through the season.



For expert guidance and personalized recommendations, contact Stauffer Lawn & Landscape to schedule a consultation.