When irrigation systems are once again up and running, there’ will be water to help them get established.
Choose the right plants. Look for plants that can thrive in Colorado. Our elevation and at times harsh environment can be a challenge for plants. And with ever-present drought, it’s important to choose plants with low water requirements. Don’t limit yourself to flowering perennials, either. Consider adding trees or shrubs to your landscape, too.
Be flexible. A local nursery or garden center or a landscape professional can guide you to plants that will enhance your landscape despite the challenges. But have a few choices in mind; supplies may be limited.
Follow this checklist when establishing plants any time of year:
Check plants regularly and water as needed especially during times with little or no precipitation.
Choose the right plants. Look for plants that can thrive in Colorado. Our elevation and at times harsh environment can be a challenge for plants. And with ever-present drought, it’s important to choose plants with low water requirements. Don’t limit yourself to flowering perennials, either. Consider adding trees or shrubs to your landscape, too.
Be flexible. A local nursery or garden center or a landscape professional can guide you to plants that will enhance your landscape despite the challenges. But have a few choices in mind; supplies may be limited.
Follow this checklist when establishing plants any time of year:
- Place plants according to the micro-environments within your landscape. Match plant needs to locations in the yard that provide sun or shade, good or poor drainage, shelter from buildings, etc.
- Know how large plants will be at maturity and avoid placing soon-to-be large plants too close together. Give them the space they need to grow without being overcrowded.
- Group plants with similar water requirements together so you can water them efficiently without over-watering some or under-watering others.
- Remember that even very low-water plants require regular drinks of water to become established. Make sure they get established before cutting back to little to no water.
- Place mulch around newly planted trees, shrubs and perennials to help retain moisture.
Check plants regularly and water as needed especially during times with little or no precipitation.