Denver winters are known for their sunshine, dramatic temperature swings, and — more often than not — very little moisture. While many homeowners assume their landscapes can simply “sleep” through winter, the reality is that Colorado’s dry climate can quietly stress trees, shrubs, lawns, and perennials if they’re left without water for too long. Proper winter watering is a crucial but often overlooked part of year-round landscape maintenance services, especially in the Front Range, where snow cover is inconsistent, and soils dry out quickly.
Understanding when and how to water your Denver garden during a dry winter can make the difference between plants that thrive in spring and those that struggle with dieback, disease, or permanent damage.
Why Winter Watering Matters in Denver
In colder, snowier climates, consistent snowpack slowly melts and replenishes soil moisture. Denver doesn’t always get that luxury. Long stretches of sunny, dry weather, even in January and February, can leave soil parched for weeks at a time. Wind, low humidity, and fluctuating temperatures further accelerate moisture loss, especially around exposed root zones.
Plants may be dormant in winter, but they are still alive and respiring. Trees and shrubs, in particular, continue to lose moisture through their needles and branches. Without adequate soil moisture to replace what’s lost, plants can become dehydrated, leading to root damage, branch dieback, and increased vulnerability to pests and disease once spring arrives.
That’s why winter watering landscape maintenance is not just optional in Denver, it’s essential.
Which Plants Need Winter Watering the Most?
Not every plant in your landscape has the same winter watering needs. Understanding which elements are most vulnerable helps prioritize your efforts.
Trees and Shrubs
Newly planted trees and shrubs (within the last 1–3 years) are especially susceptible to winter drought stress. Evergreens — such as pines, spruces, and junipers — are also high-risk because they retain their needles year-round and continue to lose moisture even when temperatures are low.
Perennials and Ornamental Grasses
While many perennials die back above ground, their roots still benefit from occasional moisture, particularly during extended dry periods.
Lawns
Dormant turfgrass doesn’t require frequent watering in winter, but during extremely dry stretches, a light watering can help prevent crown damage, especially for newer lawns.
The Best Time to Water During Winter
Timing is everything when it comes to winter watering in Denver. Watering at the wrong time can be ineffective — or worse, damaging.
Ideal Temperature Range
The best time to water is when daytime temperatures are above 40°F. This allows water to soak into the soil before freezing overnight. Avoid watering when temperatures are expected to drop sharply within a few hours.
Watering Midday
Late morning to early afternoon is the optimal window. This gives water enough time to penetrate the soil while minimizing the risk of ice forming on walkways, driveways, or plant surfaces.
Avoid Frozen Ground
If the soil is frozen solid, watering won’t be effective. Instead, wait for a warmer stretch when the top few inches of soil have thawed.
How Often Should You Water in Winter?
There’s no one-size-fits-all schedule, but general guidelines work well for Denver’s climate:
- Water trees and shrubs every 3–4 weeks during dry winter periods
- Increase frequency during prolonged dry spells with no snow cover
- Newly planted trees and shrubs may need water every 2–3 weeks
Snowfall does count, but only if it’s substantial. A light dusting won’t provide enough moisture to penetrate the root zone. If you can easily brush snow off the ground and see dry soil underneath, supplemental watering is likely needed.
How Much Water Is Enough?
Deep, infrequent watering is far more effective than shallow applications. The goal is to moisten the soil 8–12 inches deep for trees and shrubs.
- Trees: Water at the drip line, not against the trunk
- Shrubs: Soak the root zone evenly
- Lawns: Light, even watering to avoid runoff
Using a soaker hose or slow trickle is often best, as it allows water to absorb gradually into the soil rather than running off compacted or partially frozen ground.
Common Winter Watering Mistakes to Avoid
Even well-intentioned homeowners can unintentionally harm their landscapes during winter. Some common mistakes include:
- Watering when temperatures are below freezing all day
- Overwatering during short warm spells
- Ignoring evergreens while focusing only on lawns
- Forgetting newly installed landscapes
Professional winter watering landscape maintenance helps eliminate these risks by ensuring watering is done safely, efficiently, and only when conditions are right.
Signs Your Landscape Needs Winter Watering
Your plants will often show subtle signs of winter drought stress before serious damage occurs. Watch for:
- Browning or yellowing needles on evergreens
- Leaf scorch or curling on broadleaf evergreens
- Twig dieback in spring
- Soil pulling away from the root ball
Addressing these signs early, during winter rather than after damage has occurred, can significantly improve plant health and longevity.
Professional Winter Watering Makes a Difference
Winter watering may seem simple, but it requires close attention to weather patterns, soil conditions, plant types, and proper techniques. That’s where professional winter watering landscape maintenance becomes invaluable.
At C&H Landscaping, we understand Denver’s unique winter climate and how it impacts high-end residential landscapes. Our team monitors conditions carefully and provides proactive winter watering services designed to protect your investment. We approach winter maintenance with the same attention to detail and craftsmanship that defines all of our work, ensuring trees, shrubs, and landscapes are properly cared for even during the off-season.
By incorporating winter watering into our comprehensive landscape maintenance approach, we help prevent costly plant replacement and ensure landscapes transition smoothly into spring.
Hire C&H Landscaping for Winter Watering and Ongoing Care
Protecting your landscape doesn’t stop when temperatures drop — and neither do we. At C&H Landscaping, our winter watering landscape maintenance services are designed to keep your outdoor spaces healthy, resilient, and ready to thrive when warmer weather returns.
If you want peace of mind knowing your trees, shrubs, and landscape are receiving the right care at the right time, we’re here to help. Our experienced team delivers thoughtful, professional maintenance tailored to Denver’s climate and your property’s unique needs.
Contact C&H Landscaping today to schedule winter landscape design or to learn more about our full range of landscape maintenance services. Let us take care of your landscape year-round, so it can be enjoyed for generations to come.
At C&H Landscaping, our mission is to transform everyday outdoor spaces into something extraordinary with creative designs and top-notch craftsmanship. Expert Denver landscaping services from custom design to professional installation. We offer tailored solutions that enhance curb appeal, increase property value, and bring your vision to life.
