Mid Elevation Seasonal Tips

Seasonal Tips

Fall in the mid elevation climate zone is mild, with temperatures cooling significantly from September to November.

  • Adjust irrigation and watering schedule when the temperatures cool, usually in October.
  • Turn off automatic watering systems when it rains, or install a rain sensor to do this automatically.
  • Mulch to protect plants from frost.
  • Winterize plumbing to keep pipes from bursting (typically 20 degrees F. or below).

Winter in the mid elevation climate zone is cool, often with near-freezing temperatures. The last killing frost usually occurs before mid- April.

  • Adjust irrigation and watering schedule for winter temperatures and shorter days.
  • Turn off automatic watering systems when it rains, or install a rain sensor to do this automatically. 
  • To protect your plumbing, wrap any exposed pipes with insulation and disconnect and drain your garden hoses. If a pipe freezes or bursts, shut off the main water valve immediately.

Spring in the mid elevation climate zone is cool to mild and one of the driest times of the year. Temperatures rise from March to May however, there can be killing frosts as late as mid-April.

  • Adjust irrigation and watering schedule for warmer temperatures and plant growth.
  • Apply mulch around the base of plants to conserve moisture and prevent weeds.
  • Turn off sprinklers and postpone watering on windy days to reduce evaporation loss.  

Summer in the mid elevation climate zone is warm to hot, and early summer is one of the driest times of the year.

  • Adjust irrigation and watering schedule for summer temperatures.
  • Collect monsoon rainwater from your roof by installing gutters and downspouts, and direct rainwater to your plants.
  • Water plants early in the morning to reduce evaporation.
  • If you use an evaporative cooler, reduce the flow of bleed-off water discharged, and use it to irrigate plants that are not sensitive to the salts. 
  • Turn off automatic watering systems when it rains, or install a rain sensor or smart controller to do this automatically. 
  • Protect your home from wildfires (which are more common during drought) by making sure that any plants located near the house are more widely-spaced and lower-growing than those farther away.