If this winter has felt different, it’s because it has been. Across Denver and the Front Range, we’ve experienced extended warm spells, below-average snowfall, and long dry stretches — and parts of Colorado just recorded one of the warmest winters on record, with average temperatures several degrees above normal. Snowpack, which typically acts as a slow reservoir for our soils and watershed, has been limited. That deficit has real implications for plant health heading into spring.
In Colorado, winter moisture is foundational. Snow accumulates, melts gradually, and recharges the soil before the growing season begins. When we don’t get that steady recharge, we enter spring with a moisture deficit. That affects trees, shrubs, perennials, and even early vegetable crops before a single seed goes into the ground.
Extended warm, dry winters also increase early-season fire risk, particularly for gardens adjacent to open space. Maintaining hydrated trees and removing accumulated dry plant debris reduces both plant stress and hazard.
Winter Watering Is Not Optional This Year
In dry winters, plant stress often comes from desiccation rather than cold. Woody plants continue to lose moisture through bark and needles, especially evergreens exposed to wind and sun. When soils are dry or intermittently frozen, roots cannot replenish that moisture loss.
A good rule of thumb is this: if temperatures are above 40°F, the soil is not frozen, and we’ve gone several weeks without meaningful precipitation, it’s time to water. Midday is best, allowing moisture to soak in before overnight freezes. Prioritize newly planted trees and shrubs (within the last three years), evergreens, and wind-exposed plantings.
For smaller or recently planted trees, applying about 5 gallons per tree every 3 to 4 weeks during extended dry periods can help maintain root moisture. Larger, established trees will require more — the goal is to moisten the soil 8–12 inches deep around the drip line. Water slowly and deeply rather than frequently and shallowly.
Maintain a 2–3 inch layer of organic mulch around trees and perennials (kept several inches away from trunks and stems) to reduce evaporation and stabilize soil moisture.
Expect Drier Soil at Planting Time
Low snowpack often translates to dry garden beds in April and May. Seeds require consistent moisture to germinate. Transplants require steady soil hydration to establish roots. If we do not receive significant late-winter storms, gardeners should expect to irrigate sooner than usual.
Warm February days can create the illusion of an early spring. However, Denver’s average last frost still falls around mid-May. While these warm temperatures may trick you into thinking you can get a jump on the gardening season, planting too early in dry soil increases stress and can lead to uneven germination or transplant shock. Instead of rushing to plant, focus on preparation.
Build Moisture Resilience Before You Plant
A dry start to the season makes soil health even more critical. Compost increases water-holding capacity and improves soil structure. If you have not already amended your beds, early spring is the time to do it.
Mulch will also matter even more this year. A two- to three-inch layer of leaves, straw and other organic matter around perennials, shrubs, and vegetable starts reduces evaporation and moderates soil temperature. Avoid piling mulch against plant stems, but do cover exposed soil wherever possible.
What to Do Right Now
At this stage of winter, the most important actions are simple:
- Water woody plants during warm spells
- Monitor soil moisture four to six inches below the surface
- Amend soil early to increase water retention
- Resist planting too early despite warm days
Recommendations for Garden Leaders & Community Gardens
This is particularly important in community gardens, where early-season coordination matters.
If you support a network of gardeners, consider:
Communication:
- Share winter watering reminders
- Educate gardeners about perennial care needs
- Set expectations about dry spring conditions
Infrastructure:
- Inspect irrigation lines early in case repairs need to be made
- Check spigots and backflow systems
- Plan for potentially higher water usage
Colorado gardening always requires flexibility. Some years challenge us with late snow; others with dry warmth. This year appears to be the latter. The gardeners who respond early — protecting trees, building soil organic matter, and planning for intentional irrigation — will enter spring positioned for stronger, more resilient growth.
