Xeriscape Landscaping in Fort Collins, CO

Having a plan that is perfectly suited to your needs and wants is the first step in the success of an efficient xeriscape. The main point of installing xeriscape is to limit the amount of grass lawn area on your property.

1. • Design a layout for the high and low-trafficked areas for the right placement of plants, turf, etc.
   • Take notes of problem areas that are difficult to water and maintain
   • Wildlife habitats incorporated and nectar plants for pollinators
   • Possible permaculture concepts applied

While it may not seem like it, soil preparation is a very important step in the xeriscape design and installation process. Some areas along the Front Range are known to have very poor clay soils.

1. • Properly amending soil to accommodate for plants that need well-drained conditions
   • The end goal is to have healthy, living soil using organic fertilizers and composts, with no chemical fertilizers
   • Acclimating the soil with the proper compost where needed
   • Depleted soils in areas of new construction need the most attention

Related to Step 1, proper planning is critical. A sustainable landscape based on xeriscape principles can incorporate grass areas. The main key point is to limit the lawn area to what you need for the activities you want in your yard.

1. • Plan practical grass/lawn areas so that they fit the need of the homeowner’s use
   • Don’t incorporate grass areas where they are not needed/used and don’t have high foot traffic ( not on hot hills, near concrete, etc)
   • High-traffic areas are best left to turf grasses (ex. bluegrass, that can take the wear)
   • Properly placed turf will minimize water and chemical use in the landscape

Every plant within the xeriscape landscape may have different watering requirements

1. • Some plants require more water than other plants, which means to have a regulated/adjustable efficient irrigation system
   • Use a drip irrigation system for most non-turf beds; higher water plants will efficiently use less water on a drip system
   • Allocating the appropriate amount of water to each plant and each area will make your landscape as water-efficient as possible
   • Incorporate rainwater harvesting to recycle natural water and less water use!

The main purpose of installing xeriscape on your property is to conserve water. This involves highlighting the importance of drought-resistant plants. Our dedicated team can assist you in selecting from a wide range of plants that are suitable for your yard’s requirements.

1. • Use of native plants that may be heat tolerant and don’t have high water demands
   • Still offers beautiful blooms, shade, and other great-looking features
   • Provides food sources for local pollinators, birds and other wildlife

Mulch helps to regulate the temperature of plant roots by retaining moisture.

1. • Mulch is most beneficial when it is applied directly around plants because it holds moisture and releases organic nutrients back into the soil
   • Include different-sized rocks, pebbles, boulders, and mulch to provide depth and warmth to the xeriscape. You can even find some decorative rocks if you are hoping to spice up your outdoor living space.
   • Helps save water, reduce weeding, and improve the transplanting and re-seeding process
   • Be cautious of a few plants that might not like bark and/or mulch

Lack of maintenance will prevent any landscape from thriving. Monitoring your landscape frequently is an important part of the success.

• Organic and natural products used whenever possible
• Winter weather preparation of grass can improve hardiness and beauty in the long run
• Regularly check and repair irrigation systems each spring