Top 10 Groundcover Options to Reduce Mowing and Watering Needs

Landscape Design, Landscape Maintenance, Plants

Top 10 Groundcover Options to Reduce Mowing and Watering Needs

Creating a low-maintenance landscape doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty or functionality. Groundcovers offer an effective solution for homeowners who want to reduce mowing, watering, and weeding while still achieving a lush and vibrant outdoor space. These versatile plants spread across the ground, forming dense mats that prevent soil erosion, suppress weeds, and retain moisture—all without the high upkeep required by traditional lawns. If you’re ready to embrace a more sustainable, time-saving approach to landscaping, consider these top groundcover options that thrive in a variety of climates and garden settings.

Why Choose Groundcovers?

Groundcovers provide an eco-friendly, low-maintenance alternative to turf grass. Unlike a traditional lawn that requires frequent mowing, watering, and fertilizing, groundcovers are typically self-sustaining once established. They come in various textures, colors, and growth habits, making them an attractive choice for areas where you want to avoid frequent upkeep. Additionally, groundcovers offer environmental benefits by promoting biodiversity, reducing water usage, and preventing soil erosion.

Characteristics of Ideal Groundcovers

When selecting groundcovers for a low-maintenance landscape, it’s essential to consider plants that:

Require minimal watering once established
Are drought-tolerant and hardy in your climate zone
Spread easily without becoming invasive
Provide good coverage to suppress weeds
Are compatible with existing landscape features (sun, shade, soil type)

With these characteristics in mind, here are some of the best groundcover options suited to the Colorado Springs climate to help you create a sustainable, low-maintenance landscape.

Top 10 Groundcovers for Reducing Mowing and Watering Needs in Colorado Springs

1. Creeping Juniper (Juniperus horizontalis)

Ideal for: Full sun, sloped areas, erosion control
Water Needs: Low; drought-tolerant once established
Description: Creeping Juniper is a low-growing evergreen groundcover that spreads widely, forming a dense mat of needle-like foliage. Its foliage varies in color, from green to blue-green, and often turns a purplish hue in winter. This hardy plant thrives in Colorado’s challenging climate and is particularly useful on slopes or in areas with poor soil.
Tip: Plant Creeping Juniper in full sun and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

2. Blue Fescue (Festuca glauca)

Ideal for: Full sun, borders, and accent areas
Water Needs: Low; drought-tolerant
Description: Blue Fescue is a small, ornamental grass known for its compact clumps of blue-gray foliage. This resilient plant can withstand drought and is well-suited to the dry Colorado climate. Its spiky, grassy texture provides a unique contrast to other groundcovers and is ideal for adding interest to landscape borders.
Tip: Trim back any dead or damaged foliage in early spring to keep the plant looking fresh.

3. Sedum (Sedum spp.)

Ideal for: Rock gardens, hot and dry areas, full sun
Water Needs: Very low; highly drought-tolerant
Description: Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is a succulent groundcover that thrives in dry, sunny locations. With its thick, fleshy leaves, Sedum stores water and is highly resistant to drought. This versatile plant is available in many varieties, with different colors and textures, and it often blooms with small, vibrant flowers.
Tip: Sedum is a great choice for rocky, well-drained areas, but avoid planting it in shaded or overly moist spots.

4. Ice Plant (Delosperma cooperi)

Ideal for: Hot, sunny areas, slopes, erosion control
Water Needs: Low; drought-tolerant
Description: Ice Plant is a colorful succulent groundcover that adds a splash of pink, purple, or yellow flowers to the landscape. It grows well in full sun and can handle the extreme heat and low humidity of Colorado Springs summers. Ice Plant’s mat-like growth also helps control erosion, making it perfect for sloped areas.
Tip: Plant Ice Plant in well-drained soil, and be cautious not to overwater. It’s an excellent choice for a vibrant, resilient groundcover.

5. Kinnikinnick (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)

Ideal for: Shade to partial sun, rocky areas, natural landscapes
Water Needs: Moderate to low; drought-tolerant once established
Description: Kinnikinnick, also known as Bearberry, is a native evergreen groundcover with small, leathery leaves and red berries. Its trailing habit makes it ideal for covering ground in rocky or shaded areas. It provides year-round interest with its dense green foliage and reddish berries, which attract birds and wildlife.
Tip: Kinnikinnick prefers well-drained soil and does best in a naturalistic setting where it can spread freely.

6. Purple Poppy Mallow (Callirhoe involucrata)

Ideal for: Full sun, slopes, dry areas
Water Needs: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant
Description: Purple Poppy Mallow is a low-growing perennial with bright magenta flowers that bloom throughout the summer. This plant is a showstopper in the landscape, spreading quickly to form a lush groundcover. It tolerates drought and poor soil, making it a strong candidate for dry, sunny areas in Colorado Springs.
Tip: Plant Purple Poppy Mallow in well-drained soil and give it plenty of room to spread, as it can become invasive if not managed.

7. Snow-in-Summer (Cerastium tomentosum)

Ideal for: Sunny areas, borders, rock gardens
Water Needs: Low; drought-tolerant once established
Description: Snow-in-Summer is a charming, silvery groundcover with white, star-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring. This plant is tough and adaptable, handling heat and poor soil with ease. Its cascading foliage makes it an excellent choice for rock gardens or as a border plant.
Tip: Snow-in-Summer spreads quickly, so it may need occasional trimming to keep it in check.

8. Prairie Zinnia (Zinnia grandiflora)

Ideal for: Full sun, low-water areas, natural landscapes
Water Needs: Very low; highly drought-tolerant
Description: Prairie Zinnia is a low-growing perennial with bright yellow flowers that bloom in late summer. This native plant is perfect for xeriscaping, as it requires little to no supplemental watering once established. Prairie Zinnia is resilient in hot, dry conditions and adds a cheerful pop of color to Colorado landscapes.
Tip: Plant Prairie Zinnia in full sun with well-drained soil to ensure optimal growth.

9. Silver Carpet (Dymondia margaretae)

Ideal for: Sunny areas, pathways, between stepping stones
Water Needs: Low; drought-tolerant once established
Description: Silver Carpet is a low-growing, mat-forming groundcover with silver-gray leaves and small yellow flowers. This hardy plant tolerates drought and can handle some foot traffic, making it ideal for planting between stepping stones or in pathways. Its dense growth also helps to suppress weeds.
Tip: Silver Carpet prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

10. Hummingbird Trumpet (Epilobium canum)

Ideal for: Full sun, attracting pollinators, rocky areas
Water Needs: Low; drought-tolerant
Description: Hummingbird Trumpet is a Colorado native perennial with stunning orange-red, trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds. This groundcover thrives in sunny, rocky areas and can handle dry conditions well. Its bright blooms add a vibrant splash of color to the landscape in late summer and early fall.
Tip: Plant Hummingbird Trumpet in a sunny, well-drained location and enjoy the pollinators it attracts.

Tips for Establishing Groundcovers

To ensure your groundcovers thrive, follow these best practices:

Prepare the Soil: Groundcovers spread quickly, so invest time in preparing the soil. Remove weeds and add compost to improve soil quality and drainage.
Plant in Appropriate Conditions: Match each plant’s sunlight and moisture needs to the right area of your garden for optimal growth.
Mulch Around New Plants: Mulching can help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed competition as your groundcovers establish themselves.
Water Carefully During Establishment: Even drought-tolerant groundcovers need regular watering until their root systems are established. After that, you can reduce watering according to each plant’s needs.

A Groundcover Fit for Colorado Springs

Incorporating groundcovers into your landscape is a practical, eco-friendly way to reduce the time and resources spent on lawn care. By selecting drought-tolerant groundcovers suited to Colorado Springs, you can create a vibrant, low-maintenance landscape that reduces the need for mowing and watering. Each of these groundcovers offers unique aesthetic appeal and practical benefits, from erosion control to pollinator attraction. Start incorporating these hardy plants into your garden to build a resilient, beautiful outdoor space that thrives in Colorado’s climate. If you need help choosing and rolling out your new groundcover carpet, give Fredell Enterprises a call and we’ll get you started on revamping your outdoor space.

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.

Savoring the Last Drops of Summer: Your Guide to Completing Landscaping Projects

Landscape Maintenance

Savoring the Last Drops of Summer: Your Guide to Completing Landscaping Projects

If you’ve ever gazed at a stunning garden or a beautifully designed outdoor space and wondered, “How did they create this?”—chances are, a team of skilled landscapers worked their magic. Landscapers are the artists of the outdoor world, sculpting, planting, and transforming ordinary spaces into captivating landscapes. But what exactly do landscapers do? Let’s uncover the mysteries behind their craft and explore the world of landscaping.

1. Fall Planting: A Splash of Color for Your Landscape

The end of summer doesn’t have to leave your yard looking brown and ugly. While the sun still graces us with its warmth, seize the chance for fall planting. Consider adding vibrant fall-blooming flowers, ornamental grasses, and shrubs to infuse your landscape with bursts of color and life. Aspen trees are a particularly classic Colorado addition as their cool shade in the summer and shimmering golden leaves with the arrival of fall make for an especially magical experience. Coniferous trees will also lend their green hue to your yard all year long. Whether you’re imagining a tapestry of autumn hues or a serene evergreen backdrop, you can transform your yard into a brilliant color palette.

2. Outdoor Entertaining: Extending the Season’s Delights

One of the best things about summer is grilling those steaks, hamburgers, and hotdogs out on your outdoor grill and sitting back with your friends while you enjoy a cold one together. Prolong your outdoor entertaining season by upgrading your patio or deck to seize the magic of the season. Picture hosting intimate gatherings with loved ones, enveloped in the inviting glow of thoughtfully designed outdoor lighting. By crafting the perfect patio setting and enhancing your outdoor lighting, you can create unforgettable memories. Take advantage of the last summer days to get your deck or patio finished and host your last memorable summer barbeques and outdoor gatherings.

3. Hardscaping: Combining Form with Functionality

As summer vegetation fades, focus on elevating your outdoor space with the addition of seasonless hardscaping elements like walkways, retaining walls, or a new fire pit. These features not only enhance functionality but also contribute to the overall aesthetics of your landscape. With expertly designed hardscaping, you can create a harmonious blend of form and function that will look good in any season.

4. Lawn Care: Don’t Let Summer Dry Out Your Yard

Despite the fact that the rest of Colorado turns brown due to the summer heat and dry climate, your yard can continue to maintain its lush appearance. A thriving, well-kept lawn is the foundation of a stunning landscape that scoffs at the seasonal hardships. As summer transitions to fall, consider essential lawn care practices such as aeration, overseeding, and fertilization. Remember to time your lawn watering to early morning or late evening so that those precious drops don’t evaporate in the hot summer sun. Following these simple steps will help your grass remain vibrant and healthy throughout the summer.

5. Poolside Elegance: Making a Splash in Style

If you’re a pool owner, make the most of the remaining warm days by enhancing your pool area. Delve into poolside landscaping and safety enhancements, envisioning a space where relaxation and fun converge. By carefully planning your poolside area, you can create an idyllic poolside paradise that will keep you refreshed during these last scorching Indian summer days.

6. Fall Cleanup: Preparing for the Seasons Ahead

Prepare for the changing seasons by taking the time for thorough fall cleanup and maintenance. From pruning to mulching, your outdoor space can be primed for the beauty and challenges of the seasons to come. Once those early Colorado snows hit, cleaning up your yard will become a much more daunting task, so take advantage of those clear blue skies and sunny days now while you can.

7. Lighting Solutions: Safety and Ambiance Combined

With daylight hours dwindling, outdoor lighting becomes increasingly important. But it’s still not time to head indoors yet as these warm late summer temperatures will leave you wanting to continue to linger outdoors for as many evenings as possible. Illuminate your outdoor space with outdoor lighting, enhancing safety and creating a warm, inviting ambiance that extends the enjoyment of your outdoor paradise into the late summer evening hours.

8. Trust the Experts

Throughout the final days of your summer landscaping journey, remember that our team of professionals stands ready to provide guidance and assistance in bringing your landscaping vision to life. Our experience and passion for landscape design can help ensure that you don’t miss out on having the best outdoor space possible during these last days of warm weather.

As summer gracefully gives way to fall, your landscaping aspirations don’t have to wane. By incorporating these ideas and reaching out to our team for help, you can make the most of the end of summer and create a landscape that seamlessly welcomes the changing seasons with grace and style.

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.

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