Now is the ideal time to refresh your garden areas as some annuals may have started to fade. Consider introducing perennials that can endure the hot days ahead and bring vibrant color to your garden for the rest of the growing season.
Gardening is a blend of science and art. Start by choosing plants that can thrive in Colorado’s harsh climate, which includes extreme hot and cold temperatures, and that require minimal water. Once you’ve identified these resilient plants, select them based on their aesthetic value, texture, size, and shape.
Tips for Plant Selection and Placement
- Aesthetic Appeal: Some plants are prized for their colorful blooms, while others are valued for their unique texture or foliage.
- Height Considerations: Taller plants should be placed at the back of your garden beds to serve as a backdrop, mid-sized plants should fill the middle space, and shorter plants should be at the front to create a layered effect.
- Consult Experts: For personalized recommendations, consult a landscape professional or visit your local garden center. They can provide insights tailored to your specific landscape conditions.
Recommended Plants for Colorado Gardens
Here are a few perennials that are well-suited to Colorado’s unique climate, including selections from Plant Select®, known for their low-maintenance and resilient plants:
- Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): This hardy, drought-tolerant flower features vibrant blooms that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its long blooming season makes it a garden favorite.
- VERMILION BLUFFS® Mexican Sage (Salvia darcyi ‘Pscarl’): A native North American plant, this sage produces striking red flowers that are a magnet for hummingbirds. Its robust nature makes it a reliable choice for adding bold color to your garden.
- Engelmann’s Daisy (Engelmannia peristenia): These bright yellow daisies are tough perennials that adapt to most conditions, as long as they are not placed in very shady spots. They bring a cheerful pop of color and are known for their resilience.
Enjoying Your Perennials
One of the great joys of perennials is their ability to offer variety and interest throughout the growing season. By carefully selecting a mix of plants that bloom at different times, you can ensure that your garden remains dynamic and colorful from spring through fall.
Maintenance Tips
- Watering: Even drought-tolerant plants need some water, especially when newly planted. Ensure they receive adequate moisture until they are well-established.
- Mulching: Use mulch to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce weed growth around your plants.
- Pruning and Deadheading: Regularly prune and deadhead your plants to encourage new growth and prolong blooming periods.
By refreshing your garden with hardy perennials, you can create a beautiful and low-maintenance landscape that thrives in Colorado’s challenging climate. Embrace the science and art of gardening to transform your outdoor space into a vibrant haven.
For more personalized advice and plant recommendations, visit your local garden center or consult with a landscape professional. Happy gardening!
President & Founder
A lifelong Colorado resident, Marc LeDue has spent his life appreciating the natural beauty of the state and developing a passion for creating exceptional outdoor spaces. Raised in Centennial, Colorado, Marc graduated from Cherry Creek High School and pursued his interest in landscaping through studies at Front Range Community College and T.H. Pickens Technical School, where he expanded his knowledge of landscape design, installation, and industry best practices.
