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We ended 2005 about 10 inches behind on rainfall, and 2006 has arrived warm and dry. With drought conditions in the forecast, your landscape might need some extra care.
November through February in the Hill Country is usually a time of cool temperatures and rainfall more than adequate to provide the water needs of our sleepy winter landscapes. This winter, however, you may need to drag out your sprinklers. Most established plants and Texas natives are well adapted to dry conditions, but recent plantings, turf grass and evergreen plants might require one thorough soil soaking in February and again in March.
If your soil is dry 4 inches below the surface, consider watering your yard. About one inch of water is the right amount to saturate the root zone in Central Texas soils. To figure out how long to run your sprinklers, set straight-sided cans or cups in your yard and run your sprinklers until the cups are filled to one inch. If your yard is on a slope, you may need to break your watering into two or more separate sessions, allowing time between sessions for water to soak in rather than running off.
Mulch time
Now is also a great time to mulch your beds. A 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around your perennials, shrubs and trees supports plants through both winter and summer extremes by keeping the soil moist and moderating soil temperatures.
Avoid pruning your plants and do not fertilize now. Pruning and fertilizer stimulate growth, which can stress plants during drought. New growth is also very susceptible to freeze damage, should temperatures plummet again this winter. Wait until late February to bring out your pruning shears.
Be sure to avoid over-watering this winter. Even if we do not get any significant rainfall, wait until your plants begin growing again in late March or April before you resume warm-season irrigation schedule.
Consider waiting for better conditions to plant
If our dry weather continues, this spring will not be an ideal time to do a lot of planting. New plants thrive best with natural rainfall and mild conditions. Without adequate rain a new landscape will struggle to get established.
Consider 2006 a year to make other types of yard improvements. You may consider adding a cooling arbor, laying a gorgeous walkway or building an artistic new fence.
Elizabeth Drozda-Freeman is the conservation landscape specialist for the Lower Colorado River Authority. Reach her at (512) 473-3200, Ext.2230, or elizabeth.drozda-freeman@lcra.org.
 Latest issue of Currents, LCRA's e-mail newsletter for people who care about water in Texas.
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