Top 12 Colorado Landscaping Questions—Answered by Experts at Aspenwood
Crabapple tree
Top 12 Colorado Landscaping Questions—Answered by Experts at Aspenwood
When you live in South Denver or anywhere along Colorado’s Front Range, landscaping comes with its own set of challenges. Between clay soils, dry summers, sudden spring freezes, and intense freeze-thaw cycles in winter, it’s no wonder you have so many questions about your yard.
At Aspenwood Landscape & Maintenance, we’ve been helping Colorado families design, install, and care for their outdoor spaces for decades. Below, we’ve rounded up 12 of the most common Colorado landscaping questions.
1. What landscaping styles work best in Colorado’s climate?
Colorado’s semi-arid climate makes xeriscaping, native plant gardens, and low-water lawns ideal choices. These styles not only save water but also thrive in our region’s unique soils and weather swings. What you may not know, new builds in Colorado now
Explore our Landscape Design Services to see how we create sustainable, water-wise yards tailored to Colorado conditions.
2. Which grass types grow best in South Denver?
Cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescue blends perform best in our region. While bluegrass is popular, many homeowners are now mixing in drought-tolerant fescues for less water use.
Learn more about the pros and cons of these popular grass types here.
3. How often should I fertilize my lawn in Colorado?
Most Colorado lawns need fertilization three to four times per year—early spring, late spring, late summer, and fall. Choosing the right fertilizer blend matters, since our soils tend to be alkaline and low in organic matter.
Need help? Our team walks you through how to fertilize your lawn with product suggestions on this blog.
4. What time of year should I start landscaping projects in Colorado?
Spring and early summer are the most popular times to start, but fall is one of the best seasons for planting trees, shrubs, and perennials. Cooler temperatures and consistent moisture help roots establish before winter.
Check out all our Landscaping Services for project planning.
5. Should I choose concrete or pavers for my patio?
Both can be excellent choices, but pavers often perform better in Colorado’s freeze-thaw cycles. Unlike poured concrete, pavers flex with soil movement, reducing cracking.
Compare concrete vs paver patios to understand the difference.
6. How do I protect my landscaping from sudden spring freezes?
Always keep an eye on Colorado’s unpredictable spring forecasts. Cover tender plants, delay early fertilization, and protect budding trees with breathable fabric when a late freeze is expected.
7. Which trees thrive in Colorado’s clay soils?
Some great choices include hackberry, honeylocust, bur oak, and Austrian pine. For smaller yards, serviceberry and crabapple are excellent options that add spring blossoms.
Need help choosing trees? Our designers often recommend trusted sources like Pine Lane Nursery in Parker.
8. Is drip irrigation better than sprinklers in Colorado?
Yes—especially for trees, shrubs, and gardens. Drip systems deliver water directly to roots, minimizing evaporation and runoff, which makes them perfect for water-wise landscapes.
Contact us today about our Irrigation Design & Installation.
9. What are water-wise landscaping rebates available in Colorado?
Many South Denver municipalities—including Denver Water, Castle Rock, and Parker—offer rebates for removing turf, installing drip irrigation, and planting water-wise landscapes.
We can help you find out more about your local rebates here.
10. When should I aerate and overseed my lawn in Colorado?
The best times are spring (April–May) and fall (September–October). Aeration loosens compacted clay soils, while overseeding ensures a thick, resilient turf.
Schedule a full sprinkler winterization package today with Aspenwood which includes fertilizer and aeration too!
11. How do I prevent water runoff in a sloped yard?
Options include terracing, retaining walls, and strategic plantings that slow water flow. A drip irrigation system also helps water soak in gradually instead of washing away.
12. What fall clean-up tasks are essential before winter?
Rake leaves, trim perennials, cut back ornamental grasses, blow out irrigation systems, and apply winter fertilizer. Proper fall prep helps your yard handle Colorado’s snowy winters.
We can handle this for you! Just contact us for fall cleanup!
Colorado landscaping can feel tricky, but with the right knowledge—and the right team—you can have a yard that thrives in every season. Whether you’re considering a new patio, need help with irrigation, or want expert lawn care, Aspenwood Landscape & Maintenance is here to help.
Ready to transform your Colorado landscape? Contact us today for a free consultation.