Water Dry Plants

Old Jack Frost and harsh winter winds are drying out plants with shallow roots, such as azaleas and rhododendrons. But if you take advantage of those few precious winter days where temperatures are in the 40s and 50s, you can save your plants from succumbing to the cold.

Generally, on a warm winter afternoon, the top two to three inches of soil are hard - not frozen. And, believe it or not, this is a prime opportunity to break out your hose from storage. You can also use an old-fashioned water bucket. Just run the water from the hose (or pour water from the bucket) slowly around your plants so the top soil absorbs enough moisture. Remember: If you water too quickly, the water will merely run off.

Several gallons of water a few times during the winter can provide enough moisture so your plants stand firmly against the biting cold of winter.