Native Plant Garden Design in Colorado - High-Altitude Mountain Landscapes

Choose truly drought-tolerant Colorado natives adapted to 12-16 inches annual precipitation. Group plants by water needs with xeric species on slopes, moderate-water natives in low areas. Deep, infrequent watering builds drought tolerance. Eliminate thirsty bluegrass lawns.

Select natives from similar elevations—plains species for Front Range, montane species for foothills, alpine plants for high altitude. Plants from appropriate elevations perform best and require less maintenance. Consider microclimate variations in your specific location.

Mimic natural mountain plant communities with conifers for evergreen structure, deciduous natives for seasonal color, flowering perennials for summer bloom, and native grasses for movement and texture. Use rocks and boulders echoing Colorado's natural landscapes.

Native plants provide critical habitat for declining pollinators, migrating hummingbirds, and mountain birds. Include milkweed for monarchs, penstemons for hummingbirds, and native shrubs producing berries for birds. Design gardens that coexist with deer and elk.

Colorado native plants thrive in rocky, well-drained soils without heavy amendment. Avoid adding excessive organic matter which retains too much moisture. Use gravel mulches that don't hold water. Many natives prefer lean soils and struggle with fertility.

Design for year-round beauty with evergreen conifers, persistent seed heads providing winter food for birds, ornamental grasses with winter structure, and plants with colorful bark. Colorado gardens can be beautiful even under snow.