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Here’s what to expect weather-wise this summer, and how to prepare Summer conditions are expected to be significantly warmer than last year, marking the third consecutive year of anticipated record-breaking summer heat. The majority of Colorado is expected to experience a hotter and drier summer than ever experienced before. The Old Farmer’s Almanac forecasts that the summer 2025 could be the hottest on record, potentially surpassing the extreme heat experienced in 2024. The Almanac predicts that July and August will bring above-normal…

Grub activity, especially Billbugs and white grubs, is common in Colorado and can lead to irregular brown patches in the lawn. Lawn grubs, the larval stage of various beetle species, can significantly damage lawns in Colorado by feeding on the roots, causing them to be easily pulled up.  Grubs are most active in late summer and early fall.  Signs that your lawn has grubs include: Brown or dying patches that lift easily like a carpet, revealing white, C-shaped grubs in the soil underneath. Spongy feel underfoot, especially…

Russian sage is a hardy, drought-tolerant perennial tailor-made for our sunny, dry climate and growing conditions.  To grow this popular perennial successfully, plant in full sun—at least 6–8 hours per day—and in well-draining soil. Russian sage doesn’t like soggy roots, so if your soil is clay-heavy, consider planting it in a raised bed or amending your planting hole heavily with sand and compost. Spring is the best time to plant, giving the roots a full season to establish. Space plants…

In Colorado, the best time to cut back ornamental grasses is late winter to early spring (typically February to early April), when still dormant and just before new growth begins. This timing of cutting back ornamental grasses where we live allows the grasses to provide winter interest and habitat for wildlife while protecting the crown from cold temperatures. How to Cut Back Ornamental Grasses Wait for consistent warming – once the risk of extreme cold has passed but before new…

Pansies thrive in cold temperatures and even tolerate light snow. To grow cold-hardy pansies successfully in our area, follow these steps: Choose the Right Variety Select winter-hardy pansies, such as the Delta, Matrix, or Cool Wave series, which tolerate frost and rebound after freezing temperatures. Plant at the Right Time In fall, plant pansies at least 6 weeks before the first frost to establish strong roots. In early spring, plant as soon as the soil is workable. Pick a Sunny Location Pansies…

Mad respect for what the oldest ecosystems teach us about resilience! Some of the oldest ecosystems on Earth have existed for millions—even billions—of years, evolving to sustain complex life while remaining relatively unchanged. These ancient ecosystems offer a glimpse into Earth’s distant past and continue to support diverse species today. Some of the oldest ecosystems are rainforests. They have existed for over 100 million years and act as ‘carbon sinks’ (remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in…

We are entering into bluebird season – when those stalwart blue-feathered friends begin reappearing in our landscapes looking for mates and homes in which to raise their fledglings. One easy thing you can do to help the population thrive is to clean out your bird boxes each Spring (early to mid-March).  Here’s how: Ensure that the entrance hole size is not enlarged or blocked Repair or replace cracked or rotten wood Check to make sure that the nest box resists…

Voles and moles are often confused due to their underground activity, but they are different animals with distinct behaviors, diets, and impacts on gardens and lawns. Voles are small, rodent-like mammals that resemble mice. They have short tails, small eyes, and a stocky body covered in brown or gray fur. Voles primarily feed on roots, bulbs, bark, and plants, making them a threat to gardens and young trees. Voles create shallow, visible runways in grass and mulch, which they use…

By following seasonal pruning, your plants will stay healthy, productive, and beautifully shaped year-round! Spring (After Blooming) Spring-flowering shrubs (e.g., lilacs, forsythia, azaleas) – Prune after flowers fade to avoid cutting next year’s buds. Dead or damaged branches – Remove winter-damaged wood to promote healthy growth. Early bloomers – Trim lightly to maintain shape. 🌞 Summer (Mid to Late Season) Shrubs that bloom on new wood (e.g., butterfly bush, roses, hydrangeas) – Prune after the first flush of flowers to encourage…