As the hottest days of summer fade away and cooler weather approaches, now is the perfect time to add new plants to your landscape. With irrigation systems still running for a couple of months, there’s plenty of time to establish your plants before winter arrives.
Why Plant Now?
Planting in the fall gives your new plants a valuable head start. They’ll have time to settle in before winter, and by the time spring rolls around, they’ll be well-established and ready to flourish.
Choose the Right Plants for Colorado
Colorado’s unique climate can be tough on plants, so it’s essential to choose varieties that can thrive here. Our elevation, unpredictable weather, and persistent drought conditions mean that plants with low water requirements are ideal. But don’t just think about perennials—trees and shrubs can also add depth and texture to your landscape while being resilient to our environment.
Be Flexible with Your Plant Choices
Given the gardening boom during the pandemic, nursery supplies might be limited. Having a few options in mind will help, and a local nursery or landscape professional can guide you to plants that suit your landscape and thrive in Colorado’s conditions.
Follow This Planting Checklist
Whenever you’re adding new plants—whether now or in the future—keep these tips in mind:
- Location, Location, Location: Place plants according to your yard’s micro-environments. Consider factors like sun exposure, shade, and drainage to give your plants the best chance to thrive.
- Plan for Growth: Know how large plants will grow and make sure to space them accordingly. Avoid overcrowding so each plant has room to reach its full potential.
- Watering Needs: Group plants with similar water needs together. This helps ensure efficient watering and avoids under- or over-watering different plants.
- Establish First, Conserve Later: Even low-water plants need consistent moisture to become established. Water them regularly before cutting back.
- Mulch for Moisture: Place mulch around newly planted trees, shrubs, and perennials to help retain moisture and promote healthy growth.
- Winter Watch: After you winterize your sprinkler system, check on your plants regularly. Water them during dry spells, especially when there’s little or no precipitation.
Fall is an excellent time to give your landscape a boost. With the right plants and care, your garden will be ready to bloom in the spring. If you need help selecting or planting, A Perfect Landscape is here to assist you every step of the way!
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.
