Unseasonably Warm Winter Weather in Denver: What to Do in Your Yard Right Now (and What to Avoid)
If your yard in Denver is showing signs of life during this unseasonably warm winter, you’re not alone. Fluctuating temperatures along the Front Range can confuse plants and homeowners alike, especially in late winter when a few warm days feel like an early spring.
The truth is, most Denver gardens are still dormant, even when buds appear early. Knowing what to do now, and what to leave alone, can protect your yard from freeze damage and set it up for a healthier spring.
Denver Gardens Are Still Sleeping (Even When It Doesn’t Look Like It)
In the Denver metro area, soil temperatures lag far behind air temperatures. While a sunny 60-degree day may feel spring-like, roots, crowns, and beneficial insects are still in winter rest mode.
Early budding on shrubs, perennials, and bulbs is a response to temperature swings, not a sign that it’s time to start spring yard work.
Acting too early is one of the most common causes of plant damage we see in Denver landscapes.
What Is Safe to Do Right Now in Denver Yards
Light winter yard cleanup
You can remove fallen branches, wind-blown debris, and excess leaves from walkways and hard surfaces. Leave leaves in garden beds where possible to protect soil and overwintering pollinators.
Inspect irrigation and drip lines
Winter is a great time to check for cracked lines, exposed tubing, or shifted emitters. But do not run irrigation systems until consistent spring temperatures arrive.
Plan spring lawn and garden projects
Warm winter days are ideal for planning reseeding, planting, and bed improvements. Thoughtful timing is key in Denver’s climate.
Targeted mulch touch-ups
If mulch has washed away from paths or bare areas, light replacement is fine. Avoid piling mulch against plant crowns or insulating soil too early.
What Not to Do (Even During Warm Spells)
Do not prune shrubs or roses yet
Pruning encourages new growth that can be damaged by late freezes. In Denver, pruning too early is especially risky for roses, hydrangeas, lilacs, and fruiting plants.
Do not fertilize lawns or gardens
Fertilizer signals growth. Premature growth in late winter is vulnerable and often leads to setbacks.
Do not plant new trees, shrubs, or perennials
Even cold-hardy plants need stable soil temperatures. Planting now increases the risk of frost heave and transplant stress.
Do not cut back perennials
Standing stems protect crowns and provide winter habitat for beneficial insects and pollinators.
🌱 Seeing Early Buds in Your Denver Garden?
This is common during warm winter stretches along the Front Range.
What to do:
Leave plants alone
Avoid pruning or feeding
Let temperatures regulate naturally
What not to do:
Don’t cut back or shape plants
Don’t cover plants unless a hard freeze is forecast
Most plants will pause growth once temperatures drop again.
A Safer, Smarter Approach to Yard Care in Denver
Denver’s climate rewards patience and restraint. The healthiest lawns and gardens aren’t rushed, they’re cared for at the right time.
At Oak & Canyon, we take a thoughtful, seasonal approach to yard care. Our services are safe for people, pets, and pollinators, using all-electric equipment and avoiding herbicides and harsh chemicals.
If you’re unsure what your yard needs right now or want help preparing for spring without risking winter damage, we’re here to help.