The hottest days of summer are over and things should be cooling down before long. It's a good time to add plants to our landscapes. Since irrigation systems will still be running for a few more weeks, there's time to water new plants and help them get established before winter.
Planting now gives new plants a head start on next growing season. When spring comes around, the plants will be established and ready to take off and grow.
Choose the right plants. Look for plants that can thrive in Colorado. Our elevation and, at times, harsh environment can be a challenge for plants. It's also important to choose plants with low water requirements. Don't limit yourself to flowering perennials either. Consider adding trees or shrubs to your landscape as well.
Follow this checklist when establishing plants now or any time of year:
Place plants according to their micro-environments with your landscape. Match plant needs to locations in the yard that provide sun or shade, good or poor drainage, shelter from buildings, etc.
Know how large plants will be at maturity and avoid placing soon-to-be large plants too close together. Give them the space they need to grow without being overcrowded.
Group plants with similar water requirements together so you can water them efficiently without over-watering some and under-watering others.
Remember that even very low-water plants require regular drinks of water to become established. Make sure they get established before cutting back to little or no water.
Place mulch around newly planted trees, shrubs, and perennials to help retain moisture.
After the sprinkler system is winterized, check plants regularly and water as needed, especially during times with little or no precipitation.
References
Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado (2021, Sept. 3). Tip of the Week: Plant for next year. https://www.alcc.com/tip-of-the-week-email
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