In this Family Handyman article, Ryan Statham from Davey's Strathroy office shares how to properly water trees in the winter.

Posted: January 02, 2024

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.Snow covered evergreen tree in a fenced in yard

“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.

To read Statham's winter watering tips click here.

For more information, contact the Strathroy Davey office.

The Davey Tree Expert Company provides research-driven tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental and utility infrastructure consulting for residential, utility, commercial and environmental partners in the U.S. and Canada. Established in 1880 and headquartered in Kent, Ohio, Davey has over 12,000 employees who create and deliver sustainable solutions. Davey continues to grow through expertise with the SEED Campus, its newest commitment to training, research and safety. Become part of the Davey legacy by applying today and join one of the top ten largest employee-owned companies in the U.S.

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