- Lawn Watering: Even though it's winter, lawns may need watering if there's been a lack of moisture. Watering every two weeks is suggested, using the normal watering time and aiming for early afternoon, when temperatures are above freezing. Ensure that any water on sidewalks or driveways has time to evaporate before temperatures drop in the evening to avoid ice formation.
- Tree and Shrub Care: Trees and shrubs should receive deep watering at the dripline once a month during the winter months as long as the ground isn't frozen. This practice helps ensure the roots remain hydrated during the colder months where the ground isn't frozen. If the ground is frozen, which usually occurs on the north and east side of the house or deeply shaded parts of the yard, no watering is necessary.
- Brushing Snow Off Trees and Shrubs: Heavy snow accumulation on branches can lead to breakage or bending, especially if it’s wet and heavy. Gently brushing the snow off with a broom or similar tool can help prevent damage. Be sure to do this carefully, as aggressive brushing might harm the plant.
- Snow as Moisture: Snow acts as a natural moisture source for the ground when it melts. This can help hydrate plants, trees, and shrubs, reducing the need for additional watering. After a significant snowstorm, take note of how much snow has accumulated; this may provide sufficient moisture, so you can hold off on watering until the snow has melted and the soil has dried out a bit.
Keep in mind that it’s still important to monitor conditions, as snowmelt might not always be enough to meet the needs of your landscape, especially in areas where the snow doesn’t melt quickly or where the ground remains frozen. If you’re unsure, testing the soil moisture with a soil probe can help guide your decisions about when to water. - Yard Cleanup and Pruning: Since many leaves drop late in the season, yard cleanup continues, along with tree and shrub pruning. This is a good time to trim back growth, but it's important not to "top" trees. Topping, or cutting back the tree's main branches drastically, weakens the tree, leading to poor limb structure and a greater risk of future damage.
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