What is Xeriscaping? Is It Right for Me? 

What is Xeriscaping?

xeriscaping in Colorado

The term “xeriscape” was coined right here in Colorado in the 1980s. The Greek word “xeros,” meaning “dry,” was combined with the word “landscape” to form “xeriscape,” literally meaning “dry landscape.”

This environmentally friendly style of landscaping requires little or no irrigation or other maintenance. It is most frequently used in dry regions, such as Colorado, and incorporates native plants that thrive in the local climate and conditions.

Benefits of Xeriscaping

When using plants native to Colorado, the plants tend to thrive in our local climate and conditions. Benefits of xeriscaping with locally native plants include:

  • Water conservation - less additional water needed

  • Less maintenance

  • Little to no additional fertilization

  • Fewer disease and pest problems

  • More sustainable plants

  • Beautiful landscaping 

Plants Native to Colorado

There are many plants native to Colorado, which means you have a lot of options for your xeriscaping! Many of these plants can add color and variety throughout your yard. Here are just a few perennials, succulents, shrubs, and trees for you to consider.

Plants Native to Colorado

Perennials

  • Common Yarrow

  • Bee Balm

  • Rocky Mountain Penstemon

  • Prairie Coneflower

  • Goldenrod

Cacti & Succulents

  • Plains Yucca

  • Prickly Pear

Shrubs

  • Western Sandcherry

  • Golden Currant

  • Western Wild Rose

Trees

  • Rocky Mountain Maple

  • Pinyon Pine

  • Gambel Oak

Ask us about our recommendations!

View a complete list of plants native to Colorado, courtesy of the Colorado Native Plant Society.

Is Xeriscaping Right For Me?

Are you looking to conserve water, minimize maintenance, and have beautiful, native plants in your yard? If you answered yes, then you’re ready for xeriscaping!

If you’re hesitant to transition to a fully xeriscaped yard, consider starting small. Incorporate xeriscaping in flower beds and edges of the yard to accent your space. This will help conserve water and beautify your yard without fully transitioning to xeriscaping.

Ready to Start?

If you want to start saving money on water and you’re ready for xeriscaping, call Skip Stone Landscapes at (719) 445-1950. Our experienced team can help with the design and installation of a beautiful xeriscaped yard.

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