This month has been one of the driest on record since the early 1900′s. While March is typically Boulder’s snowiest month, we have only seen 0.2 inches of snow total so far. This very dry winter has been especially hard on trees.

Trees can become stressed from the dryness and in turn, become more susceptible to insects and disease.

Urban Forestry recommends using the following winter watering guidelines:

* Water only when air temperatures are above 40 degrees.
* Water at mid-day so the water can soak in before freezing night time temperatures.
* Water during extended dry periods – 1 to 2 times per month without snow cover.
* Watering to a depth of 12-18 inches below soil surface is ideal.
* For deciduous trees, apply water to the part of the root zone from the tree trunk to the outer edges of the tree’s branches.
* For evergreen trees, water 3-5 feet beyond the widest branches on all sides of the tree.

While periods of drought are common on Colorado’s Front Range, it is important to keep a watchful eye for anything that looks out of the ordinary. Contact your lawn care provider if you have any concerns.

For in the true nature of things, if we rightly consider, every green tree is far more glorious than if it were made of gold and silver. ~Martin Luther