As the weather cools and plants enter their dormant season from November to February, it’s crucial to adjust your watering schedule to ensure their health and protection during winter. At Gardens of Babylon, we provide specific guidelines to care for your landscape during these colder months.
Why Dormant Season Care is Important
Even though plants grow more slowly or seem inactive during the dormant season, they still require proper watering to maintain their health. Adequate moisture helps prevent winter burn, keeps roots healthy, and prepares plants for a vigorous spring growth spurt.
Watering Guidelines for November to February
- Initial Heavy Watering: When planting new trees, shrubs, or perennials between December 1 and March 1, it’s essential to start with an initial heavy watering. Immediately After Planting, hand water heavily at least once or twice. This helps the roots establish and reduces transplant shock.
- Ongoing Watering: Although natural precipitation is typically higher during the winter months in Middle Tennessee, supplemental watering may still be necessary, especially during dry spells.
- Monitor Soil Moisture: Regularly check the soil about 2 inches deep. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water. This prevents plants from becoming too dry and susceptible to winter damage.
- Protect from Winter Burn: Ensure plants, especially evergreens, are well-hydrated to prevent winter burn. This condition occurs when plants lose moisture faster than they can absorb it from frozen ground.
- Regular Monitoring and Adjustments: Even in the dormant season, it’s crucial to keep an eye on your landscape.
- Check Irrigation Systems: Make sure irrigation systems are functioning correctly and reaching all plants without overwatering.
- Inspect Plant Health: Look for signs of distress, such as discolored or wilting leaves, which could indicate improper watering or other issues.
- Winterizing Your Irrigation System: To protect your irrigation system from freezing temperatures, winterize it properly. Drain water from pipes and hoses and insulate any exposed parts to prevent freezing and damage. Set irrigation timers to water less frequently, matching the reduced water needs of your plants during the dormant season.
At Gardens of Babylon, we understand the specific needs of landscapes in Middle Tennessee and provide tailored solutions to keep your plants healthy year-round. Our expert team is dedicated to ensuring your landscape thrives, even during the dormant season.
Contact us today to learn more about our winter care services and how we can help you maintain a healthy, beautiful landscape throughout the year. Let us provide the care your plants need to endure the winter and flourish in the spring.
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