Our winters here in Kennewick can be either hit or miss. Sometimes they’re a little on the colder side and sometimes there can be a bit mild. But just to make sure you prepare for the harshest conditions, you will want to ensure your trees receive enough water going into the cold season.
Moisture is what will ensure your tree remains as disease free as possible. Here are a couple of guidelines for watering your trees:
Water only when air temperatures are above 40 degrees F. Apply water at mid-day so it will have time to soak in before possible freezing at night. A solid layer (persisting for more than a month) of ice on lawns can cause suffocation or result in matting of the grass.
Plants receiving reflected heat from buildings, walls and fences are more subject to damage. The low angle of winter sun makes this more likely on south or west exposures. Windy sites result in faster drying of sod and plants and require additional water. Lawns in warm exposures are prone to late winter mite damage. Water is the best treatment to prevent turf injury (see fact sheet 5.505, Clover and Other Mites of Turfgrass.)
Monitor weather conditions and water during extended dry periods without snow cover – one to two times per month.
Keep in mind that having trees on your property comes with a little bit of maintenance. With just a little maintenance, you can prevent most major pitfalls. You won’t have to be worried about trees causing property damage or even worse, personal injury. We look forward to discussing your tree maintenance needs. We have trained arborists in the Tri-Cities that are professional and that can answer any questions you have.