Use of Native Plants Results in Less Water Usage and an Easier to Maintain Landscape
Today’s post is inspired by an article “The Outliers in Urban/Town Residential Landscaping: Why These Homeowners Tore out Their Turf” that recently appeared in the Arkansas Valley Voice. The article highlights a homeowner a bit further north along the Front Range in Longmont, Colorado. This homeowner is gradually replacing the grass on her property with much less thirsty xeriscaping areas that feature native plants.
The City of Longmont (along with many other Colorado cities) offers grants for those looking to move away from grass and towards xeriscaping. The homeowner also took advantage of the “Garden in a Box” program which can help homeowners to get started with landscaping ideas that require low water usage.
The article is certainly worth a read – and it made me think that now might be a good time to cover Pueblo xeriscaping in a bit more depth as spring is nearly upon us. Spring is a good time to rethink your landscaping choices, and for some, that may include transitioning portions of your property to a more water-friendly and easier to maintain xeriscaped design.
Pueblo’s Climate is Ideal for Xeriscaping
Hot Weather and Sparse Precipitation in Any Season
Living in this part of southeast Colorado, you’re well aware that we don’t get much precipitation in this part of the state. Pueblo features a semi-arid climate typical of the Southwest U.S and receives just 12 inches or so of precipitation annually.
The lack of reliable water means using drought resistant plants and hardscaping elements like river rock and boulders to reduce overall water usage
We have hot summers with temperatures soaring into the high 80s, 90s and even the 100s during peak months like July and August. The general trend shows that extreme high temps are on the rise, with 20 days over 100 in 2023, and 25 days above the century mark in 2022.
Winters are generally cool and dry, and we have significantly less snow than most parts of Colorado – getting just over 20 inches per year on average.
Monthly Average Temperatures in Pueblo are Extreme
|
Month |
High (°F) |
Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
|
May |
74 |
42 |
|
July |
92 |
60 |
|
Jan |
47 |
17 |
Low Humidity
Not surprisingly very little precipitation also results in low humidity that can sap the moisture from plants and trees. Expect low humidity year-round, which impacts plant and tree selection.
The dry conditions can stress local flora, requiring choices that can withstand prolonged dry spells. Drought is common, adding additional stress to whatever plants comprise your landscape.
Benefits of Xeriscaping
Transitioning to a xeriscaped yard provides tangible benefits in water savings and reduced maintenance, particularly in arid regions like Pueblo, Colorado.
Water Conservation and Use Reduction
Xeriscaping is a form of water-wise landscaping that greatly reduces the need for irrigation. In Colorado, where water use is a critical issue, xeriscaping can significantly lessen the burden on the Colorado River by conserving water. This drought-tolerant approach typically leads to a 70% reduction in water use compared to traditional grass lawns.
Lower Maintenance Requirements
Grass lawns demand regular mowing and fertilization, but a xeriscaped garden thrives with minimal upkeep. Homeowners in Pueblo can enjoy lower maintenance costs and more free time, as xeriscaping eliminates the need for frequent mowing, elaborate irrigation systems, and ongoing fertilizer application.
Key Advantages
Xeriscaped yards offer these low-maintenance features:
- Reduced Mowing: Without grass, the time and effort spent on regular mowing drop dramatically.
- Minimal Weeding: Thoughtful design and appropriate ground cover reduce weed growth.
- Simplified Watering: Drip irrigation systems target plant roots, eliminating the need for widespread watering.
Cost Savings
Homeowners also experience reductions in maintenance costs due to:
- Decreased Water Usage: Plants suited to the local climate demand less water.
- Lower Equipment Needs: Less grass means fewer tools and machinery are necessary.
Maintenance Plan
A xeriscape requires a clear maintenance plan that includes:
- Seasonal pruning
- Checking and repairing irrigation systems
- Adding or replacing mulch
By adopting xeriscaping practices, the frequency and intensity of yard work lessen, facilitating a low-maintenance lifestyle that many seek. A grass lawn might appear as a green carpet, but it also stands as a constant call to upkeep. In contrast, a xeriscape serves as a sustainable, cost-effective alternative that supports a hands-off approach to yard maintenance while still delivering an aesthetically appealing outcome.
Native Colorado plants and grasses require relatively little maintenance
Environmental Advantages
Xeriscaping contributes to a sustainable garden by supporting local wildlife, including bees and pollinators, with drought-resistant plants. The use of native flora creates a habitat that is more resilient to climate change while being eco-friendly. This strategic choice in landscaping supports a healthier ecosystem and aligns with proactive steps to address the challenges posed by climate change.
Planning Your Xeriscape Yard
Transitioning to a xeriscaped yard in Pueblo, Colorado, requires careful planning, the right plant selection, and efficient irrigation. A well-executed xeriscape can save water, reduce maintenance, and provide a beautiful and sustainable landscape.
Developing a Xeriscaping Plan
The first step is to create a detailed xeriscaping plan that considers the unique conditions of your yard. Assess the areas of sun and shade, runoff patterns, and existing vegetation. Dividing your yard into hydrozones (more on that in a minute) ensures that water-wise plants with similar needs group together.
- Growth rates and mature sizes of plants
- The previously mentioned “Garden in a box” options for pre-planned designs
- Utilization of rock, mulch, and gravel to minimize water loss
Choosing the Right Plants
Selecting the correct plants is critical to xeriscaping success.
- Native grasses like buffalo grass and blue grama grass thrive with minimal water.
- Perennials and ornamental grass offer long-lasting beauty.
- Xeric plants, cacti, and bushes suit Pueblo’s climate.
- Drought-resistant plants reduce water demand.
Native plants are not only water-wise; they also support local wildlife, contributing to the ecosystem’s health. Native shrubs, trees, and flowers fit well in a xeriscape and require far less water once established.
Efficient Irrigation Systems
A xeriscape does not mean no irrigation, but rather the use of an efficient irrigation system.
- Drip irrigation targets roots directly, cutting down on water waste.
- Sprinkler systems should match the yard’s shape to avoid overspray.
- Designating water zones can cater to specific needs of various plants.
Installation and Upkeep
Soil Preparation and Organic Mulching
Xeriscaping in Pueblo begins with soil preparation to ensure plants establish well. Pueblo’s clay soil requires enrichment with organic matter to support plant growth. Adding organic mulch aids in moisture retention and provides nutrients as it breaks down. Mulching not only suppresses weeds but also maintains consistent soil temperatures.
- Initial Steps:
- Test the soil to tailor the amendments.
- Add organic matter to improve nutrient content.
- Mulching:
- Use organic mulch like straw or wood chips.
- Apply a layer 2 to 3 inches thick around plants – being sure to leave enough room around stems
Inorganic Mulching: Utilizing Rocks and Gravel
In xeriscaping, rocks and gravel serve vital roles in reducing water usage and minimizing runoff. They provide excellent ground cover and help to stabilize the soil.
- Rocks: They create natural-looking elements and reduce water use (the more rocks you have in your landscaping, the lower your water requirements)
- Gravel: Gravel pathways provide a solid foundation for foot traffic and they ensure better water permeability than solid paving.
Establishing Ground Covers
Ornamental grasses and native plants provide beauty and resilience against local climate extremes.
- Plant Choices:
- Opt for native ground covers suited to Pueblo’s arid climate.
- Select species that require little water once established.
- Planning:
- Space plants according to their growth patterns.
- Consider sun exposure and water needs for optimal placement.
Financial and Aesthetic Impact
Initial Upfront Cost May be Partially Offset Grants or Rebates
There is usually an upfront cost to switching to a xeriscaped yard. Incorporating new plants, rocks, and hardscaping will require some out of pocket costs. You may be able to offset these costs by checking for any current rebates or grants that may be offered by the City of Pueblo, Pueblo West, or Pueblo County.
Long Term Water and Maintenance Savings
After this initial up front cost, transitioning to a xeriscaped yard in Pueblo, Colorado, can lead to significant savings on water bills and maintenance, while boosting property value and offering an aesthetically pleasing outdoor space.
Increasing Property Value
Homes with xeriscaped yards can see an increase in property value. Given the growing awareness around conservation in Colorado, home buyers find value in sustainable and cost-effective landscaping. This includes hardscapes that require less water and reflect the natural beauty of Colorado, making the property more attractive in the market.
Supporting Biodiversity and Wildlife
Trees and shrubs serve as habitat and provide food for birds and small mammals. These plants offer shade and respite from the urban landscape. Flowers, particularly those that bloom at different times of the year, support a diverse range of pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. They also contribute to pollination, which is vital for the growth of local plant species.
Grasses that adapt to the local environment require less water and maintenance. Their hardy nature ensures that, even in harsher conditions, they offer cover and food for insects and wildlife. Such grasses contribute to soil health and prevent erosion.
Leveraging Local Programs and Resources
Residents of Pueblo, Colorado, possess opportunities to reduce water usage through existing turf replacement programs and collaboration with local organizations.
Understanding Turf Replacement Programs
In Pueblo, homeowners can explore turf replacement programs for an efficient transition from traditional lawns to xeriscaping. Colorado WaterWise offers the Xeriscape Colorado initiative, designed to promote water-saving landscaping. These programs encourage community members to replace grass with drought-tolerant plants, providing both guidance and, in some cases, financial incentives. Cash for Grass represents another notable program, as reported by the Water Desk, aimed at boosting water conservation through turf removal subsidies.
