Consider going NATIVE!

Colorado is known for dramatic temperature swings, hard freezes, and often dry conditions. 
​Gardening  can be a challenge!
It is also becoming increasingly important to consider our ecosystem and be mindful of water use.  More and more we move into neighborhoods that were once habitats for wildlife.  Deer, rabbits, coyotes, birds, bears, etc. have been displaced or are trying to live alongside us.  Pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds need our help to thrive.
Non-native plant selections require more resources to survive and often struggle in our somewhat harsh environment.  More water, more fertilizer, more herbicides are rarely the solution to a thriving and responsible landscape. Educating ourselves and choosing our plants/shrubs/trees wisely is a more likely way to succeed and create a landscape you will be proud of and love to care for.
A wonderful resource for choosing native trees and shrubs is the CSU Extension website.  Here are two links that you will find helpful:
https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/native-trees-for-colorado-landscapes-7-421/
https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/native-shrubs-for-colorado-landscapes-7-422/
 
Fall is coming and it is a wonderful time to plant perennials:

• it’s a great time to see where there are gaps in your landscaping that would look better with some new color.
• The weather is cooler, giving newly planted items time to establish themselves before winter.  It will take much less water and diligence on your part.
• Many are on sale this time of year, and even plants with imperfections will thrive and be beautiful by next spring.

A comprehensive list of NATIVE Perennials to consider:
https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/native-herbaceous-perennials-for-colorado-landscapes-7-242/
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