This week has certainly been a windy one! The part of your landscape that can take the most wind damage is also one of the most important—your trees. They provide shade and keep buildings cool. They clean the air of toxins, and they produce much of the oxygen that we breathe. So what are the best ways to address damaged trees and potentially cracked limbs to keep them from becoming a liability? Inspect your trees, and as you do: · Be…
Don’t be fooled this April Fool’s—April is National Lawn Care Month, and below we dispel some of the common myths about lawn care so you can get your yard off to the best start this season: Myth #1: The best time to replant the lawn is in the spring when plants are getting ready to bloom. Reality: Sowing seeds in the spring sets up potential problems. Early season weeds will compete for the space – and hot and stressful months that are hard…
It’s not just a fad to grow your own veggies. Growing vegetables that can go from the garden to the table in a matter of minutes is a solid trend. Even restaurants are establishing their own gardens, and for good reason. Growing your own veggies gives the freshest flavor possible and eliminates the chance of consuming any unsavory pesticides. Now is the season to get those tasty crops growing with cool season veggies – lettuce, carrots, radishes and spinach. And once they…
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…
