From mountains to plains, lakes to deserts, Colorado’s diverse climate is well-known. Your own yard likely holds as much variety.
Understanding how to match plants with the specific conditions is the key to building a thriving, resilient garden. Recognizing and working your landscape can significantly improve plant health and extend your growing season. The most important step in figuring out where to put a plant is observation. Observe what environmental factors change in your yard throughout the day and across seasons.
Light availability: Note areas of full sun, partial shade and deep shade in the morning, afternoon and evening. These areas will change over time as the sun’s trajectory shifts. The best time to observe sun availability is near the summer solstice in late June; that is the peak sun exposure period. Light requirements are defined as hours of direct sun per day:
Full sun — six or more hours.
Partial sun — four to six hours.
Partial shade — two to four hours.
Full shade — two or fewer hours.
Landscape: Observe hills, slopes, valleys and pooling water. Water will be more readily accessible in valleys and at the base of a slope, whereas the top of a slope or hill will have consistently drier soil. Some native plants might prefer these areas with sharper drainage.
Wind: Wind is a constant companion, particularly on open hillsides or the eastern edges of town. Note which areas are protected by buildings, walls or other plants. Exposed spaces will be better suited for hardier species. Wind can cause structural damage to plants, and it is also desiccating.
Structures: Pay attention to warmer zones near buildings, fences or stones that radiate heat.
Soil: Test the soil in various parts of your yard. Sandy soil warms quickly but can dry out fast, while clay retains moisture and heat longer.
With observations in hand, move forward with selecting the best plant for each place or strategically adjusting your microclimates. Placing elements such as rocks, pathways or water features can moderate temperature and humidity. A south-facing stone wall can absorb heat during the day and release it overnight, creating a warmer pocket suitable for heat-loving plants such as tomatoes or peppers.
A berm, or small hill, provides the space to feature water-conscious plants at the peak with thirstier plants near the base. Living windbreaks, such as hedges or trees, as well as structural windbreaks, such as fences and walls, create calmer zones for less hardy plants.
Blending design with ecology is an excellent way to embrace the character of your space. With a bit of observation and intention, you can create a thriving landscape tailored to the unique quirks of your backyard.
Submit gardening questions to csumg2@elpasoco.com or call 719-520-7684. The in-person help desk is open 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Visit elpaso.extension.colostate.edu and register for upcoming classes at epcextension.eventbrite.com.