When to Water an Evergreen Before It Freezes Up

Recommended Watering

• For optimal growth and to minimize possible winter damage, keep watering evergreens right up to the point when the ground finally freezes up, recommends the University of Minnesota Extension website. It is very important that the soil around the tree is moist at the time when it freezes. In the northern regions of country like the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, this is usually at the end of November.

Advantages

• Unlike deciduous trees, the evergreen foliage of the trees retained through winter makes sufficient soil moisture necessary throughout the cold season. The leaves of evergreen trees continue to transpire or evaporate moisture even in winter. If the soil is not sufficiently moist and if the roots are not able to fulfill tree requirements for water, it will result in browning and dying foliage. The damage commonly referred to as freeze damage or winter drying is actually a result of insufficient soil moisture.

Moisture Conservation

• Applying a thick layer of organic mulch around the tree helps to conserve soil moisture. Mulching also helps to keep weeds in check and moderates soil temperature. Recommended mulch materials include wood chip, straw, ground corncobs or shredded bark. When applying mulch, take care to pull it away from tree trunk and do not apply deeper than 3 to 4 inches. Placing mulch against the trunk leads to moisture accumulation and possible bark rot.

Fertilizing

• Larger, established evergreens do not require fertilizer. When fertilizing the newly planted evergreens, the recommended time is during every early spring or late fall at the time of the last watering. The University of Minnesota Extension website recommends a nitrogen-rich fertilizer like 12-6-3 or 16-6-6. The application rate is generally 1/3 pound for every foot of tree height or spread, whichever is greater. Work in the fertilizer into soil around tree and water well after application.