| | Soaking yard and garden plants, trees and shrubs in the fall is an important step in preparing plants for the winter. If the plants are still absorbing water, fall watering can recharge the moisture supply in the root zone.
In the fall, after the first frosts, but before the soil is frozen, fill the soil profile around trees and shrubs with water. When done too late in the fall, the plants may not able to absorb this water into their root systems, but soaking may help to protect the roots from drying out when there is little or no snow cover, and it will ensure that water is available early in the spring. If the plants can still take up the water and move it up into the branches, buds and needles, they will go into winter in the best possible shape. Be sure to irrigate shallow-rooted species twice to be sure there is ample water is in the root zone.
There are several factors to consider when determining how much water is needed or how long to let the water run into the soil at the base of trees and shrubs. Knowing the soil texture being worked with as well as the water pressure and water flow will help when trying to gauge how much water and watering time is needed.
As the root zone is recharged with water it’s also important to be sure that the plants are not sitting in a puddle. A word of caution: watch how much water is applied and when if dealing with newly planted trees in a heavy clay soil with poor drainage. If the water applied is not absorbed in the soil, it can freeze and heave the root ball partially out of the ground.
It is easy to focus on trees and shrubs when watering, but do not overlook watering the other perennial plants in the yard and garden as well. Strawberries, raspberries and perennials will all come through the winter in better shape if they are watered-in.
While fall watering is important, it won’t overcome the stress caused by inadequate watering during the growing season. Proper watering practices during the spring and summer, plus fall watering are all necessary to help plants to come through the winter in the best possible health.
Local garden centres can provide information for gardeners. Also, information on yard, garden turf and shrub and tree care is included in the Alberta Agriculture publication, Alberta Yards and Gardens: What to Grow. This publication contains information to help Albertans successfully grow ornamental trees and shrubs, small fruits and berries, flowers, vegetables, herbs and even water plants. To order this publication, call 1-800-292-5697 or purchase on-line. |
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