There are those of us who don’t relish contact with insects and worms while working in the yard, but many of them are actually quite beneficial. For instance: Ladybugs and lacewings prey upon damaging aphids and whiteflies. Ground beetles eat caterpillars and Colorado potato beetles, so they may serve an important function in your garden. By establishing your landscape, you’ve created an ecosystem, and many of those insects serve a purpose. If pests are damaging your plants, you can consult…
The outdoor entertainment season is just a few weeks away. If you have a grad party, wedding or other outdoor event coming up in May, now is the time to get your lawn into shape (so you’re not rushing around two weeks in advance). That’s why April is National Lawn Care Month. There are four simple things you can do now that will make your lawn lush in just a few weeks. Plus, what you do now will pay off all season…
After recent snows gave them a dose of moisture, and with temperatures heating up along the Front Range, some early spring bulbs are hinting at the color to come. Crocuses, hyacinths and even some daffodils and tulips are showing their faces. The warm days might inspire you to add some color to your landscape. However, keep in mind that April in Colorado could still bring us heavy snowfall. Wait at least six weeks to plant most annuals. If you’re really…
Don’t let fires take you by surprise Even though we are coming out of one of the coldest weeks in March on record, it is not too soon to start planning for wildfire protection. As the Marshall Wildfire proves, fires that claim hundreds of homes don’t just happen in the heat of summer. Prevention against fire anytime during the year starts with planning now—particularly how to plant and maintain your landscape this spring. As winter turns into an early spring, create…
Not all soil is created equal. Soil serves many important functions in an ecosystem. Whether it is in your landscape or an indoor pot, soil is the medium for your plants to thrive. USDA’s National Resources Conservation Services notes that high quality soil performs five functions at the same time: Soil… Acts like a sponge, soaking up rainwater and limiting runoff. It also helps with groundwater recharge and controlling rainwater runoff in urban environments. Acts like a faucet, storing and releasing water…
Want a gift that lasts longer than a rose? Roses traditionally say, “I love you,” but a bunch can be rather short-lived. Here’s some creative inspiration to extend your very special message to your very special someone. Extend the blooms with a rose plant Your Valentine can keep it indoors for now and move it outside when the weather warms. With proper care, roses will continue to bloom indoors. Give your sweetheart some special indoor greenery Indoor plants are always…
Each year, the National Garden Bureau (NGB) chooses its plants of the year in several categories: annuals, perennials, bulbs, shrubs, and edible plants. This year they also added a houseplant to the roster. Below are their picks for 2022. Take some time to learn more about these trendy plants and plan to add them to your own landscape in the new year: Gladiolus (bulb) – Dramatic flowers grow from these bulbs (corms, to be exact) each summer. Fun fact: Gladiolus is the official…
Did you know that your landscape can support wildlife? There are many birds that overwinter in Colorado, including chickadees (pictured), juncos, crows, and the striking cedar waxwing. A healthy landscape can provide food and shelter for them. Many landscape plants can be a home or a meal for birds. Sunflowers, yarrow, and blue flax are among the plants that can give sustenance to our feathered friends. Yarrow can provide nest material as well. Trees and shrubs like blue spruce, Rocky Mountain juniper,…
This Sunday is National Poinsettia Day. Poinsettias are a great gift for this time of year. While they are not edible and could cause mild illness, they aren’t poisonous to kids or pets. Use them to decorate your home without fear but know that it can take some effort to keep them alive and healthy in Colorado. If the gift recipient isn’t a dedicated plant lover, you might consider a different, hardier gift plant. If indoor houseplants are more their speed,…
Over the last couple of years, many of us have spent more time than ever in our yards. When you were giving thanks last week, we hope that you spent a moment appreciating all that your landscape does for you. Our outdoor spaces can give us: Better health. Gardening is a great method of exercise. It’s also good for you mental health, helping boost your mood by interacting with nature. Better environment. Plants clean the air and provide oxygen. They cool our homes…
