Yes! You should consider watering all trees every 3 to 4 weeks when there is no snow cover and daytime temperatures are above 40 degrees. Let’s talk about why.

In the high desert, winter doesn’t always bring the deep, moisture-rich snowpack that trees rely on in other regions. Instead, we can get long stretches of cold, sunny, windy weather that dries out the soil. Without supplemental water, trees can suffer from winter desiccation, leaf browning, and long-term stress that shows up months later.

Evergreen trees keep their needles all winter long, providing color and structure to the winter landscape while everything else goes dormant and bare. But staying green through our cold, dry season takes energy. They continue to photosynthesize at a low level, which means they still need water to function.

Deciduous trees also need water in winter. While they are dormant, they are not dead. Their roots are still active and developing root hairs to absorb moisture for spring. Making sure they are properly watered in winter helps ensure that they are better equipped to deal with drier conditions in the summer months.

Now that you understand why winter watering is important, let’s talk about how to keep your trees healthy through the coldest months.

When to Water Trees in Winter

A good rule of thumb: water once every 3–4 weeks during winter when temperatures are above freezing and the soil can absorb moisture.

Ideal watering conditions:

• Daytime temperatures above 40°F
• No snow or ice covering the soil
• The ground is soft enough for water to penetrate

Symptoms of stress usually show up in late winter or early spring – long after the damage is done, so prevention is key. If we get a long dry spell, like we’ve seen this January in Northern Nevada, your trees will appreciate a deep drink.

How to Water Properly

1. Water Slowly and Deeply

Use a hose on a slow trickle or a soaker hose. The goal is to moisten the soil 12–18 inches deep, where most of the roots are.

 
2. Focus on the Dripline

Water the area under the outer edge of the branches, not right at the trunk. This is where the feeder roots live.

 
3. Mulch for Moisture Retention

A 2–4 inch layer of mulch helps regulate soil temperature and reduces evaporation. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

4. Avoid Overwatering

Winter watering is occasional, not frequent. The soil should dry out between waterings. Also make sure there is no standing water around the tree by nightfall. Freezing and thawing of standing water at the base will damage the trunk and may even kill the cambium layer.

Special Considerations for Newly Planted Evergreens

Young trees are especially vulnerable because their root systems are still shallow. For the first 2–3 years:

• Water every 2–3 weeks in winter
• Check soil moisture more frequently
• Maintain a consistent mulch layer

A little extra care early on pays off with stronger, more resilient trees later.

What About Snowfall?

Light snow doesn’t provide much usable moisture. A few inches of powder may look pretty, but it melts into only a small amount of water. Unless we get a significant, prolonged snowpack, you should still plan on supplemental watering.

Final Thoughts

Winter watering isn’t complicated, but it’s one of the most impactful things you can do for the health of your landscape trees in northern Nevada. A few deep waterings during dry winter months can prevent stress, reduce their susceptibility to pests, and keep your landscape looking vibrant year-round.

For more information on watering trees in hot, dry landscapes, we have a guide available here with detailed information: