Spring planting in Colorado presents challenges due to fluctuating weather conditions, according to Denver Water and local experts.

Last Freeze Dates

Denver Water, citing the National Weather Service, indicates that the average yearly last freeze date in Denver is May 5. However, over the past decade, this date has frequently occurred around May 11.

Landscaping Costs

Forbes reports that in 2023, homeowners in Colorado spent between $2,000 and $13,000 on landscaping, varying by property size. This expenditure underscores the significance of gardening and lawn care in the region.

Preparing Your Yard

Christine Hise, an expert from City Floral Garden Center, advises homeowners to take proactive steps to ensure a healthy yard. This includes checking moisture balance, addressing dry spots, aerating to oxygenate roots, and selecting appropriate fertilizers.

Watering Practices

Denver Water recommends waiting until the weather is consistently warm before activating automatic sprinkler systems. Overwatering can impede the growth of lawns and gardens, leading experts to suggest watering every other day or three times a week, particularly in the absence of summer heat.

Blooming Season

Hise highlights the importance of timing in watering to avoid damaging new buds on plants like columbines, crabapples, and redbuds. Denver Water’s summer watering rules, enforced from May 1 to October 1, further regulate watering practices during peak growing seasons.

Snow Protection

In light of potential late-season snowfall, it’s crucial to inspect evergreens for winter damage and promptly remove snow from branches to prevent breakage. Sensitive plants should be shielded or brought indoors ahead of severe weather.

For gardening enthusiasts in Colorado, understanding these weather-related challenges and adopting appropriate practices can ensure a successful spring planting season.

Diego Sanchez

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