Winter Plants in the Desert, Phoenix Arizona

Winter Plant Care

During the cooler months of winter, some plants go into dormancy. Essentially, plants are “resting” above the ground but there is activity in the roots if soil temperatures are cool. Adjusting water times and caring for plants in the cooler months is just as important as in the warmer months.

Normally, trees and shrubs that go into winter with adequate soil moisture do not need watering during the winter. The winter rains usually provide enough water. Deciduous plants do not need much water because the leaves, where transpiration occurs, are gone and nutrients needed for growth are not required because there is no shoot growth.

Fertilization of trees and shrubs during the winter in the desert should be avoided. Fertilizer can stimulate plants to come out of dormancy and this could result in damage due to winter temperature. Tender young shoots are more susceptible to the frost that can sometimes come through.

The same holds true for most evergreen plants such as pines, junipers, and native oak trees. When the soil and air temperatures are cold and sunlight is reduced, growth slows or stops. Growth resumes and increases in spring, summer, and fall. That is what spring, summer, and fall are for!