Colorado Springs Xeriscaping Companies

What is Xeriscaping?

An overview of Xeriscaping from Colorado Spring Utilities

Eco-Friendly Landscaping

Xeriscaping is an earth-friendly way to landscape. This method reduces the need for extra water. By using plants and shrubs that thrive in the Colorado Springs area, it helps conserve resources.

Water Conservation

One of the main goals of xeriscaping is to save water. By using plants that need less water and efficient irrigation systems, homeowners can reduce their water usage. This is especially important in areas like Colorado Springs where water resources are limited – especially during the hot dry summer months in El Paso County.

Low Maintenance Requirements

Xeriscaping offers lower maintenance for homeowners. With less need for watering, pruning, or fertilizing, this type of landscaping allows more time to enjoy your outdoor space. In addition, many xeriscape plants are either native adapted to the local environment, so they grow well with little care.

Xeriscaped Yards Take Advantage of Native Grasses, Plants and Hardscape Elements Like Gravel

Aesthetically Pleasing

Xeriscaping doesn’t mean filling your yard with nothing but prickly pear cactus!  You can still have a beautiful yard. Though water-wise, xeriscaping can still be visually appealing. By using a diverse range of low-water plants, homeowners can create stunning landscapes. Native plants blend in with the natural surroundings and often attract local wildlife.

Xeriscaped Yards With Plants Native to Colorado Can Provide You with a Beautiful Yard

Drought Tolerance

As climate change brings more frequent droughts, xeriscaping benefits homeowners by being more resilient. By choosing plants suited for dry conditions and using drought-tolerant landscaping techniques, xeriscapes stay beautiful and healthy even during water restrictions.

Xeriscaping Process

Determine Planting Areas

The first step in xeriscaping is to figure out where to place the plants. This process considers the amount of sunlight, the slope, and the type of soil in each area. Grouping plants according to their water needs is essential for water conservation and overall plant health.

Incorporating Hardscape Elements Like Walkways and Gravel

Integrating hardscape elements, such as walkways and gravel, into the design adds visual interest and reduces the need for water-intensive grass. These elements can also prevent soil erosion and improve accessibility to different areas of the landscape.

Introducing Native and Adaptive Plants and Shrubs

Using native and adaptive plants and shrubs in a xeriscape landscape ensures they are familiar with the local climate and require less water. By choosing plants that thrive in the Colorado Springs area, homeowners can expect better survival rates and lower maintenance requirements.

Oftentimes, Homeowners Will Choose to Have a Mix of Xeriscaping and Grass on Their Property

Implementing Irrigation for Plants, Shrubs, and Trees

Even though xeriscaping aims to reduce water usage, some irrigation is still necessary. Installing a smart and efficient irrigation system allows for proper water distribution to plants, trees, and shrubs. Drip systems or soaker hoses are preferred over traditional sprinklers, as they deliver water directly to where the plants need it the most.

Adding Mulch for Water Retention and Soil Health

Lastly, applying a suitable layer of mulch is critical for water retention and soil health. It helps reduce evaporation, maintain consistent soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Organic mulches, such as wood chips and bark, improve soil structure and contribute to a healthier ecosystem for the plants.

Ideal Plants for Xeriscaping in Colorado Springs, Colorado

Shrubs are a key component of xeriscaping, as they add texture and year-round interest. Some suitable shrubs for Colorado Springs xeriscapes include Rabbitbrush, Serviceberry, Currant, Sumac, and Wild rose. These native plants are well-suited for the local climate and can withstand periods of drought.

When it comes to flowers, a variety of perennials and wildflowers native to the Rocky Mountain region are ideal for xeriscape gardening. Some favorites include Agastache, also known as hummingbird mint, which boasts pink and orange flowers attractive to hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Other options include Primrose, Penstemon, Sunflower, and Clover. Many of these plants can be found in the Colorado Springs Utilities Xeriscaping plant database, offering water-wise options tailored for the region.

Grasses are another element that adds texture and movement to a xeriscape garden. Native grasses such as Indian rice grass, Grama grasses, and Little bluestem are well-adapted to the dry Colorado climate. These grasses require little water and provide a unique, natural look to the landscape.

Colorado State University also has numerous resources for water wise properties.  Here are lists of adaptive and native plants, trees and shrubs recommended by the University.  An adaptive or native plant is by nature a drought tolerant plant that requires relatively little water when compared to species like Kentucky Bluegrass which isn’t ideally suited to our semi arid climate here in Colorado Springs.

For more ideas, be sure to check out “Garden in a Box” from Resource Central.  With this service, you’ll register in either March or June.  This service provides you with some of the best low water use plants for your yard here in Colorado Springs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does it Cost to Xeriscape my Colorado Springs Yard?

Xeriscaping costs can vary depending on factors such as yard size, plant selection, and materials used. Costs can be $10,000 or more to do a large plot of land, but is significantly less expensive if you’re looking to only xeriscape parts of your yard – like berms.

What are Some Xeriscape Design Ideas for Colorado?

Xeriscape designs in Colorado should focus on water conservation and using native, low-water drought tolerant plants. Key elements of a Colorado xeriscape design may include drought-tolerant plants, practical turf areas, and efficient watering systems. For more ideas on water-wise landscaping, check out the resources provided by Colorado Springs Utilities Xeriscaping.

What Costs More – Xeriscaping or Traditional Landscaping?

In general, xeriscaping tends to be less expensive in the long run compared to traditional landscaping, mainly due to lower water usage and less maintenance. However, initial installation costs for both methods can vary based on factors such as plant choices and materials used. For a comparison of landscaping costs for a variety of landscaping service approaches, you can refer to this Bob Vila article.

How Much Water Can Xeriscaping Save in Colorado Springs?

Xeriscaping in Colorado Springs can save significant amounts of water. In many cases, xeriscaped yards require up to 50% less water than traditionally landscaped yards. By selecting native drought-tolerant plants and grouping them based on water needs, you can greatly improve water-use efficiency in your landscape.

Are There any Local Incentives for Xeriscape in Colorado Springs?

Yes, there may be local incentives to encourage xeriscaping in Colorado Springs. Some utilities companies and city governments offer rebates or other incentives for installing water-saving landscaping features such as xeriscaping. For example, there are rebates for homeowners who switch from turf grass to native grasses.