GROW LOCAL – CHALLENGES AND BENEFITS OF LANDSCAPING IN COLORADO
We love living close to the mountains, and so do some of our favorite plants! But Colorado’s high-altitude climate brings its own set of challenges, being drier and cooler than certain regions. At Detailed Landscape, we are well acquainted with these conditions. Here are some tips to help your garden thrive in this unique environment.
KNOW YOUR SOIL
Mountain soil can have too much clay and iron for some species of trees and some broad green-leafed plants. Consider aerating, adding organic matter to the soil and composting for your garden. Mulching the surface of the soil can moderate temperature, reduce evaporation and curb runoff.
BEWARE OF RAPID TEMPERATURE CHANGES
The weather changes rapidly on the Front Range, and when it turns unseasonably warm during winter, take advantage of the day and water your plants! While the best time of year to fertilize is in the fall, avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers to prevent cold damage. Finally, plan your landscaping with airflow to prevent cold pockets in case of a cold snap.
The air is dry. Really dry.
Fort Collins gets an average of 14 inches of rain a year, which is not enough for some plants. That’s one of the reasons Detailed Landscape has our own greenhouse, where we grow waterwise perennials and native plants, including succulent cacti, Colorado flowers and tall grasses.
THE SUN IS INTENSE.
When selecting a spot for flowers, opt for a sunny, open area. However, choose flowers with smaller leaves, as they can better endure the intense sunlight and occasional hailstorms.
Colorado’s unique high-altitude climate presents its own set of challenges for garden enthusiasts. However, with the proper knowledge, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden that complements the stunning mountain landscape. At Detailed Landscape, we have the expertise and experience to help you achieve your garden goals. When it comes to choosing the best plants for Colorado landscapes, we’re experts. Contact us and get started today!