Preparing Your Colorado Springs Landscape for Winter’s Embrace

Landscape Maintenance, Lawn Care, Seasonal Yard Care

Preparing Your Colorado Springs Landscape for Winter’s Embrace

Colorado Springs is a beautiful city, but winter can be tough on your landscape. As the golden hues of autumn surrender to the crisp embrace of winter, it’s time to ensure that your landscape is well-prepared to weather the colder months. Winter can be a challenging season for your outdoor space–the cold weather, snow, and wind can damage plants and trees, and make it difficult for them to survive. That’s why it’s important to prepare your landscape for winter before the cold weather arrives. With some thoughtful planning and a bit of elbow grease, you can protect and even enhance your landscape’s health.

1. Mulch Because It Matters

One of the first steps in winterizing your landscape is applying a fresh layer of mulch. Mulch acts as a protective blanket for the soil, helping to regulate soil temperature and moisture levels. You can use a variety of materials for mulch, such as wood chips, bark chips, and straw. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your trees, shrubs, and perennial plants. This layer will insulate the soil, keeping it warmer during cold spells and preventing frost heave.

2. Prune for Protection

Late fall is an ideal time for pruning your trees and shrubs. Remove any dead or diseased branches as they are more vulnerable to winter damage. Proper pruning enhances air circulation and reduces the risk of snow or ice accumulation on branches, which can lead to breakage. Also remove any dead leaves and weeds from your yard. This will help to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering in your landscape. You should also trim any shrubs or trees that are overgrown. This will help to prevent them from being damaged by the snow and wind. If you’re uncertain about the best pruning practices for your specific plants, consult with a landscaping professional.

3. Wrap and Shield Plants

Tender plants, particularly newly planted trees and shrubs, may benefit from protective wrapping. Trees and shrubs can be damaged by the weight of snow and ice. To protect them, wrap them with burlap or other protective material. You can also stake trees and shrubs to help them support the weight of snow and ice. Anti-desiccant sprays can also be applied to reduce water loss from leaves. Additionally, use burlap or specially designed plant covers to shield vulnerable plants from harsh winds, heavy snow, and freezing temperatures.

4. Wrap and Clear Water Pipes

Water pipes can freeze and burst in the winter. To prevent this, wrap them with insulation or heat tape. You should also drain any outdoor faucets or hoses. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to back up and damage your roof and foundation. Be sure to clean your gutters and downspouts before the winter weather arrives.

5. Inspect Your Irrigation System

Don’t forget to adjust your irrigation system for the winter season. As temperatures drop, plants require less water. Reduce the frequency and duration of watering sessions, but be sure to deep water your landscape thoroughly before the ground freezes. Proper drainage is crucial to avoid ice buildup that can damage plants and hardscaping elements. Additionally, inspect your irrigation system for any leaks or damage. Repair any leaks and make sure that your irrigation system is turned off before the first frost.

6. Safely Remove Snow

Snow can be both enchanting and challenging for your landscape. Shoveling or snow blowing paths through your garden can help protect plants from the weight of accumulated snow. Brush snow off branches and shrubs gently to prevent breakage. Be cautious, though, as plants can be brittle in cold weather.

If you use de-icing products on walkways or driveways, choose eco-friendly options that won’t harm your plants or contaminate groundwater. Be cautious when shoveling near your landscape features to avoid damaging plants or hardscaping elements.

7. Protect Your Lawn

Integrate hardscaping elements strategically to enhance functionality and aesthetics. Patios, walkways, or retaining walls can define spaces and reduce the need for excessive plantings. Choose materials that complement your overall design while offering durability.

8. Plan for Spring

While winterizing your landscape, take a moment to plan for spring. Consider any landscaping projects you’d like to undertake once the snow melts. Whether it’s adding new plants, creating a patio, or designing a garden space, now is the perfect time to dream and plan for the beauty that spring will bring.

9. Consult a Professional

For complex or extensive landscaping needs, consider consulting a professional landscaping company. They can assess your landscape’s unique requirements and provide expert guidance on winter preparation and long-term care.

Winter in Colorado Springs can be both challenging and beautiful, but by following these tips and being proactive in your landscape care, you canl help ensure that your outdoor space not only survives the winter but thrives when the spring thaw arrives. Prepare your landscape with care, and you’ll be rewarded with a vibrant, healthy, and resilient outdoor haven in the seasons to come.

Summer Lawn Care Tips: Keeping Your Colorado Springs Yard Healthy and Vibrant

Landscape Maintenance, Lawn Care

Summer Lawn Care Tips: Keeping Your Colorado Springs Yard Healthy and Vibrant

Ah, summer—the season of barbecues, outdoor gatherings, and basking in the sun. It’s also the time when your Colorado Springs yard needs some extra TLC to stay healthy and vibrant under the scorching heat. As a leading landscaping company in the area, we at Fredell understand the unique challenges that Colorado summers present for maintaining a lush and beautiful lawn. So what do you need to do to keep your Colorado Springs yard in its prime throughout the season? Here are some tips and tricks that we’ve discovered.

Proper Watering Techniques

Watering your lawn correctly is crucial during the hot summer months. Aim to water your lawn deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Watering in the early morning or late evening helps minimize evaporation and allows the grass to dry before nightfall, reducing the risk of disease. Remember that Colorado Springs has water restrictions, so check with local authorities for any specific guidelines.

Adjust Your Mowing Height

Raise the mowing height of your lawnmower during summer. Taller grass shades the soil, conserves moisture, and helps prevent weed growth. Set your mower to a height of around 3 inches to keep your grass healthy and resilient in the face of summer heat.

Be Mindful of Fertilization

Summer is not the ideal time for heavy fertilization in Colorado Springs. The high temperatures can stress your lawn, and excessive nitrogen can lead to burnout. Instead, focus on using a slow-release or organic fertilizer in late spring or early fall. This provides nutrients to the soil gradually, promoting steady growth and overall health.

Combat Summer Weeds

Weeds love to take advantage of weakened grass during summer. Regularly inspect your lawn for any unwelcome invaders and promptly remove them. Apply an appropriate herbicide if necessary, following the instructions carefully. Remember to choose a product that targets specific weeds without harming your grass.

Aerate and Overseed

Core aeration is beneficial for your lawn in the summer. It allows water, air, and nutrients to reach the grassroots more effectively, promoting a healthier and more robust turf. Consider overseeding with cool-season grasses, such as fescue or ryegrass, to fill in bare spots and improve the overall density of your lawn.

Protect Against Pests

Summer brings out various pests that can wreak havoc on your lawn. Be on the lookout for insects like grubs, chinch bugs, and sod webworms. If you notice signs of infestation, consult with a professional landscaping company like Fredell to determine the best course of action. They can provide targeted treatments to protect your lawn from these pesky invaders.

Provide Shade and Limit Foot Traffic

Excessive foot traffic and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can stress your grass during summer. Limit heavy use of your lawn during the hottest parts of the day and provide shade where possible. Consider planting trees or installing shade structures to protect vulnerable areas and create comfortable spaces for outdoor activities.

By following these summer lawn care tips, you can maintain a healthy and vibrant yard in Colorado Springs. However, if you need professional assistance or want to take your lawn to the next level, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced landscaping team. We’re here to help you create a lawn that stands out and thrives all summer long. Enjoy the season and savor the beauty of your Colorado Springs landscape!

Bring Your Lawn Back to Life After a Harsh Winter

Landscape Maintenance, Lawn Care

Bring Your Lawn Back to Life After a Harsh Winter

Winter can be tough on our lawns, leaving them looking dull, patchy, and in need of some love. As someone who takes pride in their yard, you might be feeling frustrated by the state of it. But don’t worry! With a few simple steps, you can restore your lawn to its former glory and have it ready for the spring.

Take a good look: The first step is to evaluate the damage and get a sense of what you’re working with. Walk around your yard and take note of any dead or brown patches, as well as areas that need extra attention.

Clear away debris: Winter can leave a mess in its wake, so make sure to remove any leaves, sticks, and other debris that may have accumulated on your lawn. This will allow sunlight and air to reach the grass, which is essential for healthy growth.

Aerate: Aerating your lawn is a key step in restoring it after winter. This process involves making small holes in the soil, which helps to ensure that water, air, and nutrients can reach the roots of your grass. If you have an aerator machine, now is the time to break it out. If not, you can easily aerate by hand using a garden fork.

Fertilize: Your lawn needs the right nutrients to grow strong and healthy, so be sure to fertilize it. Look for a fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and follow the instructions on the package when applying it.

Reseed bare patches: If you have any bare or patchy areas on your lawn, now is the time to reseed them. Choose a grass seed that is well-suited to your climate and spread it evenly over the affected areas. Remember to water the seed regularly and keep it well-watered until it has taken root and started to grow.

Water deeply and infrequently: Regular watering is essential for restoring your lawn after winter. Instead of giving your lawn a light sprinkle every day, make sure to water deeply and infrequently. This will encourage your grass roots to grow deep and strong.

By following these six steps, you’ll be on your way to bringing your lawn back to life after a harsh winter. With a little bit of care and attention, you’ll have a lush, green lawn that will be the envy of your neighborhood and a source of pride for you.

Summer Garden Chores

Landscape Maintenance, Lawn Care

Garden chores for the month of June
The glory of Colorado summers begin in June. Landscape plantings explode with new growth and start to reward us with color and beauty. Here are few tips to help keep your landscape colorful and healthy.

Fertilize lawn.
Check all trees and shrubs for insect pests
Continue mowing operations.
Feed roses.
Dead head annuals.
Remove weeds.
Inspect sprinkler system operation, adjust timing as needed.

July is the month when landscape color pops with the intensity of a fireworks display. Here are few reminders to help you maintain the brilliant colors in your landscape.

Check for lawn fungi.
Prune shrubs after flowering.
Continue mowing operations.
Cut back bulb foliage when it starts to yellow.
Dead head annuals and perennials.
Remove weeds.
Inspect sprinkler system operation, adjust timing as needed.

August is the hottest month of the year, but our summer afternoon storms help to keep us cool as we work out in the yard. Here are a few reminders to help keep you keep your landscape beautiful and healthy.

Continue mowing operations.
Dead head annuals and perennials.
Inspect sprinkler system operation, adjust timing as needed.

Weed Control
A weed is considered any plant that grows where it isn’t wanted. Weed control is probably the most tedious of all tasks that must be kept up in order to maintain a garden. It also may be the most important task because it eradicates invasive plants that steal nutrients and water from the plants that are purposely planted.

Fortunately, there are a few steps that can be taken to help prevent a lot of weeds from germinating. For example, applying wood mulch at the recommended depth of 3” prevents the sun from penetrating weed seeds. Weeds that inevitably germinate should be pulled before they go to seed so that they can’t spread; plus, it’s much easier to pull weeds when they’re young and tender.

Make sure to pull the whole weed including the root so that it won’t come back. There are various garden tools that can be used to make weeding more efficient. The use of herbicides should be limited to times when the weeds are excessive.

Spring Lawn Care Tips

Landscape Maintenance, Lawn Care

As we work our way into spring, are you thinking ahead to the maintenance of your landscape? Now is the time to begin your landscape clean up and prepare your lawn and garden for spring time. Fredell Enterprises has a few Spring lawn care tips for you!

Although Colorado offers late season skiing into April or even May for some lucky locations, the Colorado Springs area averages a daily maximum temperature for March that’s between 50 and 57°F, with the minimum temperature usually falling between 26 and 32°F. The month of March is when Colorado Springs days start to warm up noticeably, and gardeners can be seen readying their beds for planting. In this article, we’ll cover a list of items that should be on every Colorado homeowner’s spring landscape clean up list.

Mulching

One step in spring lawn care that helps Colorado gardens grow best is mulching around plant beds. Mulch helps keep the weeds at bay and helps the soil retain warmth and water, which means less watering for you and better conditions for your plants. Whether you use wood or rock mulch, March is a good time to check for early weed growth by removing any debris, dirt, fallen leaves, or other organic matter from your mulch beds. A simple hand-held blower is a great way to clean up your plant beds, and new weeds can be easily removed by hand. Over time, your wood mulch will diminish due to wind and weather, so be prepared to replace about one third of it every three years or so. A depth of three to four inches is sufficient; any less will leave the ground too exposed to adverse conditions, any more and you may restrict the flow of oxygen to plant roots.

Watering and irrigation systems.

We hope you’ve been watering your plants during the winter months. Winter watering is critical to minimizing stress on plants and will reduce futile attempts to revitalize dead plants in the spring. Watering deeply and infrequently encourages deep root growth, which expands your plants’ ability to find the water and nutrients they need. This helps reduce the amount of supplemental water and fertilizer your plants need. If you have an irrigation system in place, perform an audit at the beginning of each season and adjust accordingly to ensure efficiency.

Ensure that heads are spraying in the correct direction
Check head filters
Sod should have complete head to head coverage

Another lawn care tip for Spring is to adjust your irrigation to current weather conditions, and water during the hours of 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. once the threat of frost is gone but avoid watering under windy conditions. You won’t need to water on days when it has rained more than ¼ inch. If you don’t have an irrigation system yet, call Fredell Enterprise at 719-630-1355. We have proudly served the Pikes Peak Region and surrounding areas along the Front Range including Woodland Park and the I-25 corridor for over three decades, providing top quality service for all budgets. We are a local, family owned and operated firm that offers top quality, full service landscape architecture, design, and construction for Colorado homeowners.

Lawn care.

An aerated lawn is a healthy lawn. Aerating allows for better water, air, and fertilizer absorption. If you didn’t core-aerate your lawn last fall, it can still be done now as weather permits. Another useful lawn care tip: when mowing, use sharp blades set at the highest setting to help shield the soil from the sun and retain moisture better. Using dull mower blades will make ragged cuts that turn the tips off your grass brown, which can trigger the incorrect response of watering more. Brown spots should be watered by hand rather than watering the entire lawn with the irrigation system. When fertilizing, consider reducing the application rate of nitrogen, as it creates lush, fast growth, which uses more water. March is a good month to cut back any ornamental grasses to a height of 2–3 inches and trim away dead or damaged branches from shrubs and trees. If your landscape includes flowering perennials, trim them to a height of 4–5 inches to allow new growth to emerge.

Water features.

Water features are a beautiful, natural addition to any garden or outdoor living space. Whether you opt for a waterfall, pond, stream, bird bath, or fountain, the sound of water adds a relaxing and pleasant element to your landscape, especially in the dry Colorado climate. Winter storms may have left debris in your water feature, and extreme cold may have caused cracks or damage in hard surfaces. Clean out any debris present and check for damage winter may have left behind. You may need to add water due to evaporation or splash loss, and March is a great time to check any pumps to ensure they remain in good working order.

The Necessity of Watering Your Plants & Grass In Winter

Landscape Maintenance, Lawn Care

Colorado has some of the most stunning landscape in the country and is a popular place to visit year round. But Colorado’s winter weather is very dry, which can be the real reason behind damage to the landscape rather than the cold itself, which is why continuing to water your plants in the winter is essential. Dry air and winter winds can remove water from plants and trees, and when the ground freezes, any underground water turns to ice crystals that cannot be absorbed by plant roots. Water acts as an insulator for root systems, protecting them from damage during colder temperatures.

How much water is enough?

When it comes to fall and winter watering of your plants of grass, Colorado State University has some expert guidance for homeowners and plant lovers regarding the necessity of winter watering. Because the combination of dry air, low precipitation, little soil moisture, and fluctuating temperatures are typical in many areas of Colorado, it is often necessary to provide additional soil moisture from October through March to keep plant and tree root systems healthy and thriving, especially during times of little to no snow cover. Trees, shrubs, perennials and lawns may suffer damage during fall and winter if they do not receive supplemental water. Here are some quick tips from the CSU Extension program on when to water your plants and landscape:

To give your plant adequate soil moisture as they head into winter, water plants when the leaves begin to fall in the autumn.
Water trees, shrubs, lawns, and perennials during prolonged dry fall and winter periods to prevent root damage that affects the health of the entire plant.
Water only when air and soil temperatures are above 40 degrees F with no snow cover.
Apply water at mid-day so it will have time to soak in before possible freezing at night.
Established large trees have a root spread equal to or greater than the height of the tree.
Apply water to the most critical part of the root zone within the drip line.
Plants receiving reflected heat from buildings, walls and fences are more subject to damage. The low angle of winter sun makes this more likely on south or west exposures.
Windy sites result in faster drying of sod and plants and require additional water.
Lawns in warm exposures are prone to late winter mite damage. Water is the best treatment to prevent turf injury.

Following these guidelines of watering your plants during winter season can help ensure your landscape remains healthy and beautiful throughout Colorado’s colder months.

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