Landscaping and Lawn Care Knowledge

How Much Are You Watering?

Fall, Winter and Spring Watering Tips

One of the major causes of lawn failure in Colorado is desiccation from dry winter conditions such as wind and little precipitation.

Dry air and low soil moisture are fall and winter characteristics in many areas of Colorado. During extended periods, particularly October through February when there may be little or no snow cover, lawn grasses, trees and shrubs can be damaged if they do not receive supplemental water.

  • In October, give the lawn about a half-inch of water per week.
  • From November through January, grass should have about 1 inch every four to six weeks. Trees and shrubs should be deep-root watered about once a month.
  • Between February 1st and mid-April, grass should receive about 1 inch every two weeks.
  • From mid-April to mid-May, lawns need about three-quarters of an inch a week.
  • Southern and western exposed areas (especially if they are sloped) are more susceptible to drying out and may need more frequent watering.
  • Watering in the winter usually means dragging out the hose on a sunny day and then be sure to drain the water from the hose when done to re-store it in a dry place in case of freezing temperatures.