Over the years, I have written more than ten articles about our climate: too much snow in winter and how it damages trees; not enough water in winter, what does this mean for farmers and ranchers in the next growing season; or June How does the dry heat of China bring pressure to plants.

Damn it, as early as the summer of 2012, I wrote an article about watering during a drought, and guess what happened? For the next four days, it rained 1.5 inches.

I am willing to do it again: sacrifice column space and word count in the name of all things moisture. Since October 14th, the area has had about 0.4 inches of rainfall and no measurable snow. During that time, the average maximum temperature was close to 60 degrees and reached 15 degrees at the coldest time. It was the beginning of a very mild, dry winter. During that time, I actually wore shorts more often than I started a fire.

So here is your suggestion for watering in winter, I hope you don't have to do this. This article will give Mother Nature the motivation to snow and make my words meaningless.

Many of our landscape (and native) plants have to endure years of drought, higher than normal temperatures, and a long-term combination of the two. Over time, this can put pressure on plants, making them more susceptible to diseases, insects, or other environmental conditions.

The potential result of this protracted weather pattern may be partial death of plant roots, especially newly planted or stressed plants. Woody plants usually have shallow root systems and require supplemental watering. Perennial herbs and ground cover plants, especially those exposed to the outside, may crack in the soil, exposing their roots to cold and dry conditions. Even recently established lawns have very shallow root systems and will dry out very quickly.

One way to relieve this pressure is to water in winter, as long as the following guidelines are followed:

I am fully aware that watering in winter is a pain, especially if you have a dog obsessed with hoses. Many of you have put away the hoses, protected the sprinkler system and hose bibs from the cold, and left the summer chores behind.

But a sound and healthy root system is the foundation of plant success. Knowing how much time, energy and money we have invested in these plants, it is a shame to see them die before the beginning of the next growing season.

Darrin Parmenter is the director and gardening agent of the La Plata County Extension Office. Contact him at darrin.parmenter@co.laplata.co.us or 382-6464.

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