Winter Watering Tips for Trees in Central Florida

Fall is coming to an end, and winter is just about to begin. This new season will bring about many challenges for our trees. The change in weather can ultimately affect the health and longevity of trees across central Florida, especially if we do not care for them properly during these crucial times. Therefore, it may be necessary to give them extra care and attention to ensure they stay healthy year-round. 

Water is vital for the survival of your trees, and unfortunately, the winter months are typically the driest. This means that your trees will require proper watering to survive the rest of the season and be able to flourish again in spring. Let’s take a look at a few winter watering tips you can begin using today! 

1. Observe the Weather 

Weather, especially in Florida, can be very unpredictable. However, you can most definitely count on dry spells during the winter through the months of December to March. But if we do receive rain, it’s essential to consider before we begin watering away. Overwatering can result in root rot, fungus growth, and other issues. 

2. Time it Out 

Did you know that water acts as a heat insulator for the soil and tree roots? Proper watering keeps the environment pleasant and toasty for your tree and prevents damage from the cold weather above. Plants that are healthy and have enough water can withstand freezing temperatures without suffering from damage. They can also heal from weather damage much faster. 

Even the time of day when you decide to water your plants’ matters in these situations, watering too late at night can increase the chances of damage to the roots. This is because the trees will have little time to soak up the water before the temperatures drop. Watering your trees at the beginning of the day gives them enough time to soak up the water and decreases the chance of the cold temperatures turning the excess water in the soil into ice. 

3. Use Mulch 

Mulch is one of the best things you can do to prevent heat from escaping during the night from the soil below. Mulch can protect your tree’s roots from excess moisture and help to regulate the soil from colder temperatures. When cold air hits the soil surrounding your tree, it can often crack, leaving the roots exposed to air, bugs, and other problems. Mulch can help to fill in these gaps and protect your tree’s roots from a host of different issues during the winter months. 

4. Create a Watering Schedule

In the summer months, you, more than likely, had a perfect system when it came to watering your trees and other plants on your property. Well, things should be no different this winter. You can ensure your trees receive enough water to survive even during the coldest nights when you create an easy-to-follow watering schedule. It can also be adapted when you take the weather into consideration to prevent excess water buildup in the soil. 

Winter Watering Tips: Conclusion 

At SB Tree Service, we take pride in being able to care for your trees year-round. Whether they need a trim before spring, new mulch before winter, or professional care, we are here to help! Our team of professionals and ISA-certified arborists will work with you to protect the health of your trees no matter what the winter season brings. Visit us online to learn more about our services and check out our blogs to prepare yourself and your trees for winter.