Colorado’s Front Range is a semi-arid region, normally getting 13 to 15 inches of precipitation a year. During a drought, however, annual precipitation rates can fall as low as 8 to 10 inches. This can put a strain on many plants, especially when watering restrictions limit the amount of supplemental irrigation that can be applied. The following plans include plants that can take Colorado’s periodic droughts in stride.

• Note: If you are landscaping with native plants, soil amendments may not be necessary. For many of these plants, you need only to loosen the soil.
• Amend the soil. Mix compost or manure into your soil to help it retain more water.
• Mulch. Mulching trees, shrubs and flower beds will help the soil retain water and prevent the soil surface from crusting. Mulching also keeps the soil temperature (and the plant roots) cooler, reducing the amount of moisture the plants use. Mulch should be at least 3 inches deep.
• Irrigate efficiently. Drip irrigation is the least wasteful way to water shrubs, trees and perennials. Apply water low and slow.

Note: Use map for printing. Designed by Sara Delaloye, The Good Earth.

Note: Use map for printing. Designed by Tim LaPan, registered landscape architect.