Do Trees Need Water During Winter? | Family Handyman

By Karuna Eberl

Updated on Sep. 03, 2024

Your trees might need a winter boost of hydration to stay healthy. Here's how to know when to water them and when to leave them alone.

That tree outside your window might look leafless and dormant, but chances are its roots are still active, gathering nutrients and keeping tissues hydrated and healthy. But just like with humans, cold winters can be a challenge for trees.

“A combination of winter’s dry air, little soil moisture and fluctuating temperatures can be hard on trees and shrubs,” says Ryan Statham, district manager with Davey Tree. “With strong winter winds pushing dry air over them, insufficient moisture levels cause them to lack the structure they need to support themselves.”

That means that often, trees do need a little water in the winter. “Their water requirements are generally reduced compared to the growing season,” says Kathy Glassey, arborist and senior consultant at Inspire Green.

With October through March being drier months in much of the U.S., winter watering can become all the more important. However, watering requirements vary depending on the local climate, tree species and soil types.

Here’s what to know about when to water trees during winter.

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Sometimes, yes. Roots continue to grow, even when soil temperatures drop below 40 degrees. So giving them proper tree care and enough water is vital to help them overwinter and prevent root damage.

Water can also help:

If it’s a mild winter and the ground isn’t frozen, continue to water your trees like normal, says Statham. “Evergreens, especially, can get thirsty in the winter, which is why you’ll sometimes see them with brown needles,” he says. “So give your evergreens some extra attention.”

Woody plants with shallow root systems — maples, fruit trees, lindens, honey locusts, hawthorns, oaks and mountain ash — also benefit from winter watering during dry periods. For evergreens, that list includes pine, spruce, fir, arborvitae, juniper, Oregon grape-holly, boxwood and Manhattan euonymus.

“Typically, native trees and shrubs that have adapted to the local climate are often better equipped to handle winter conditions without requiring supplemental watering,” says Statham.

Proper winter tree watering can be a tricky balance in areas with freezing temperatures since overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases. So it’s important to assess the condition of the tree and monitor soil moisture. When in doubt, consult a local arborist.

Other winter circumstances in which you might not want to water include:

When watering and caring for trees, always:

Taking your soil composition into account is also vital, says Glassey. “It’s been said that 80% of urban trees do not have proper soil composition or quality, and this increases water needs for trees,” she says.

Glassey recommends consulting a professional arborist and soil health program to evaluate your soil’s porosity and nutrient, water and oxygen levels. “And as your soil becomes better, as nature intended, your trees will need less help from you,” she says.

Also, find out if banana water for plants is a good choice.