Category: Tip of the Week

Colorado State University’s Extension, in partnership with Gov. Jared Polis, the Colorado Department of Natural Resources, Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, and University of Colorado Museum of Natural History, has co-authored the most comprehensive report of pollinator health ever undertaken in Colorado. The Colorado Native Pollinating Insects Health Study assesses the health of Colorado’s native pollinators, evaluates state policies for safeguarding pollinators, and makes recommendations on how to preserve and protect them.  According to this article from CSU about the study, “Pollinators play…

A little effort now will make work easier when spring arrives. Lubricate your shears, pruners, or other cutting. Sand or replace wooden handles. Go shopping for tools that need replacing or could use an upgrade. Look for ergonomic tools that make the work less taxing. If the mower wasn’t winterized by draining gasoline, changing the oil, etc., do it now. Have it serviced and sharpen the blade long before it’s time for that first mow. To clean and sharpen your…

For 2024, Pantone has chosen a color that symbolizes nurturing, warmth, and a gentle embrace of the future: Peach Fuzz. This velvety, soft hue, resting between the vibrancy of pink and the calmness of orange, marks the 25th anniversary of Pantone’s Color of the Year program. Unlike last year’s bold Viva Magenta, Peach Fuzz brings a more neutral palette.…

The backyard garden may be finished for the season, but you can keep your green thumb in shape with an indoor herb garden this fall and winter. If you choose the right conditions, windowsill herb gardening requires little time and effort. If you have a sunny exposure for a south or west facing window you’ve got most of what you need to cultivate an herb garden all winter long. In return, you’ll get the joy of greenery plus some extra…

If you haven’t planted bulbs yet for next spring, there may still be time. Planting now gives them time to develop roots before the ground freezes. It’s an easy project as long as you know a few things to do – and not do – when planting. Do: Choose a location that is well-drained and gets plenty of sun. Plan your planting around bloom time. Daffodils and crocuses will appear early in the season, while tulips will come along later. Check with…

As the growing season winds down and you prepare your landscape for winter, you may find yourself with a lot of yard waste. Instead of bagging it and tossing it into the garbage, why not make that yard waste continue to benefit your plants by composting? What to put in your compost bin: Leaves Grass clippings Straw Plant debris While you’re at it, you can also add food waste from indoors, like coffee grounds, fruit peels and cores, and vegetables.…

Plant fall bulbs now for spring color. The fall months, specifically September and October, are the best times to plant bulbs for a colorful display next spring. To break out of their dormant state, bulbs need 12 – 14 weeks of cold temperatures (below 45 degrees). There are many different bulbs to choose from including; tulips, daffodils, crocus, and alliums. You can plant the bulbs individually or in a mass to create a more vibrant display. Water well when you…

Lawns help cool our environment and make our backyards more enjoyable in the warm months. Through spring and summer—especially this year—they can be the focus of our outdoor activities. As we head into fall, take some time to change up your lawncare routine to help it continue to serve us well next year. Here are some things to consider for fall lawn maintenance: Reduce weekly maintenance. Cut down on watering and mow less frequently. Cooler nights combined with fewer hours of…