10/18/2026
Fall is here; the temperatures are dropping, and the leaves are falling, but it is still too early to shut off and drain your irrigation system.
If you installed new landscape plants this year, they will have much smaller root systems than established plants, so they need more frequent dormant-season watering. The newly planted root balls will dry out much faster than the surrounding native soil. The goal is to keep the root balls moist, but not soggy.
Please follow these guidelines to have a successful spring.
Water every 4-7 days in October and November and every 7-14 days from December through March.
Run times are approximate. Increase to the high end in warmer, drier weather, and to the low end in cooler, wetter weather.
Sandy soil: 45 - 60 minutes
Loam soil: 35 - 45 minutes
Clay soil: 25 - 35 minutes
Sandy soil: East and north Carson City, Jacks Valley, Stephanie/Johnson Lane area
Loam soil: Central and south Carson City, Southwest Reno
Clay Soil: West Carson City, Gardnerville
Here are some frequently asked questions about winter watering.
How do I know when I need to water?
The easiest way is to check the soil in and around the root balls of a few plants. Use a screwdriver to dig into the top 1-2” of soil. If it is wet, wait to water. If the top 2” is dry, it is time to water.
What if there is snow on the ground?
You don't need to water if snow is on the ground, since it will slowly melt and seep into the soil, watering the plants.
What if it rained recently?
It depends on how much it actually rained. If there was over .75” of precipitation, your plants should be okay. Below that, we’ve found most rain events in Nevada only boost humidity and add about .10” or less of rain, which isn’t enough to thoroughly water the root balls.
What if the ground is frozen?
If the root balls have enough water to freeze, you can wait to water.
Can I water by hand?
Yes! You can connect a hose to your faucet and water the landscape. Place the hose on a medium flow or use a rain wand. Plan on about 15 seconds per perennial, 30 seconds per shrub, and 1-2 minutes per tree, depending on the size of the root ball. Be sure to disconnect your hose from the faucet when you have finished watering!
How do I water if the irrigation is frozen?
If the soil is dry from evaporation, but cold enough to freeze your drip lines, you will need to water by hand.
What about established plants?
Established plants (planted 3+ years ago) also need winter watering, just not as frequently. Plan on watering every 10-20 days, based on temperatures and precipitation. Use the same run times listed above.
