Looks like temps are heating up again. Your lawn might start to look brown or stressed, but resist the urge to simply water more. There are good reasons NOT to turn up the water until you check what’s going on with the lawn. Fungus problems can turn your lawn brown—almost overnight. And if you crank up the water, you’ll only make it worse. When lawns begin to stress, the color turns blueish-gray before it looks like straw. If you walk…
Last week we talked about colorful, low-water annuals for your containers. Now let’s discuss the benefits of water-wise perennials. They are low-maintenance, need little water, and, if properly established, won’t need to be replaced each season. Water-wise perennials need more water during their first growing season to become established, but in following growing seasons require much less water. All the hardy, low-water plants listed below offer color and interest in the landscape and have low water needs once established. •…
In Colorado, we love our landscapes and are spending more time outdoors where we can enjoy them. While we had some rain early this week, we are reminded that drought is a fact of life in our state. We should look for plants that are easy to grow, can handle summer heat, and don’t need a lot of water. Annuals for patios and porchesPorches and patios don’t seem complete without a container or two of annual flowers. Choosing the right…
Gardening is not a “set and forget it” hobby A garden needs care throughout the growing season if you want a good harvest. Earlier this month, we shared five tips for establishing a garden. Once the plants are in the ground, we recommended these five steps to help it thrive. By following these simple steps, you and your garden will have a fruitful partnership this growing season: Water consistently. Irregular watering that allows plants to wilt through underwatering or soil…
Mother’s Day ‘living’ gifts A living gift is a great idea for Mother’s Day. Whether she lives in an apartment or in a house with a big yard, there is plant for every mom. We’ve got a few ideas for celebrating Mom with plants. Hanging baskets can brighten up a porch, balcony, or sunny window. Many garden centers offer a variety of sizes and color combinations, so you’re sure to find something that fits Mom’s style. They can be moved…
Successful gardening doesn’t have to be complicated or exotic. As with many endeavors, keeping the process simple and grounded in the basics pays off. This week we’re sharing five tips to start your garden off right. Choose wisely. Know how many plants you can grow in the space you have. Avoid the temptation to over purchase. Count the days. Make sure plants have time to grow to maturity. Seed packets tell the number of days until harvest. If you plant…
Tip of the Week If you’re spending more time at home and in your yard, you might be tempted to water the lawn often—but don’t. This is a critical time for your grass; spring is when it grows its feeder roots that capture water all season long. Resist the urge to spoil your lawn. Don’t let its roots get used to over-watering, or it can have negative effects for the rest of the season. Over-watering can cause turf roots to…
Today, the third Friday in April, is Colorado’s Arbor Day, and National Arbor Day takes place the fourth Friday in April. This day makes it the perfect time to think about planting a new tree or three. A long growing season let’s tree get settled into their new home. Before you plant another flowering crabapple tree, consider trying something different. Many arborists recommended planting a diversity of trees in your yard, throughout a neighborhood and within the community. Tree diversity…
A living gift is a great idea for Mother’s Day. Whether she lives in an apartment or in a house with a big yard, there is plant for every mom. We’ve got a few ideas for celebrating Mom with plants. Hanging baskets can brighten up a porch, balcony, or sunny window. Many garden centers offer a variety of sizes and color combinations, so you’re sure to find something that fits Mom’s style. They can be moved easily, so she can…
When planning your landscape, keep home safety in mind. Most burglars are not the slick, sophisticated type seen in films; many break-ins are hastily planned. A few strategic design decisions could provide the deterrent needed to make a potential burglar rethink their actions. Security professionals and law enforcement often recommend the following environmental safety measures for homes: Reduce hiding spots. Avoid big hedges around the front of your property. Don’t plant large shrubs near windows or entryways, where potential intruders…
