...
Native Plant Gardens for Pollinators in Colorado Springs: A Guide to Supporting Local Wildlife

Native Plant Gardens for Pollinators in Colorado Springs: A Guide to Supporting Local Wildlife

Plants

Native Plant Gardens for Pollinators in Colorado Springs: A Guide to Supporting Local Wildlife

Creating a native plant garden is more than just a beautiful landscaping choice—it’s also one of the most effective ways to support Colorado Springs’ local pollinators and enhance biodiversity. Native bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinating species depend on local flora for food and shelter. As natural habitats in the Pike’s Peak region shrink due to development and climate change, gardens filled with native plants can serve as essential sanctuaries for these species. By cultivating native flora that thrives in Colorado’s unique climate, homeowners can provide essential resources for pollinators while enjoying a vibrant and sustainable garden.

Why Support Local Pollinators?

Pollinators are vital to the health of both natural ecosystems and human agriculture. In fact, over 75% of flowering plants and about 35% of global food crops rely on animal pollinators for reproduction. Without pollinators, many fruits, vegetables, nuts, and flowers would disappear from our landscapes and diets.

In Colorado Springs, native pollinators include:

  • Native bees (such as mason bees, bumblebees, and leafcutter bees)
  • Butterflies (including monarchs, painted ladies, and swallowtail)
  • Hummingbirds, particularly broad-tailed hummingbirds
  • Moths, including the white-lined sphinx moth
  • Beetles and flies that play lesser-known but important pollination roles

These species have co-evolved with native plants, meaning they’re particularly efficient at pollinating them. In return, these plants offer the nectar, pollen, and habitat that pollinators need to survive and reproduce.

Supporting pollinators is also beneficial to the broader environment. Healthy pollinator populations contribute to:

  • Biodiversity, supporting food webs from insects to birds and mammals
  • Resilient ecosystems, improving plant reproduction and seed dispersal
  • Soil and water conservation, especially when pollinator-friendly native plants are used
  • Climate change adaptation, by promoting plant diversity and genetic resilience

By planting even a small native garden, you can contribute to the ecological health of your community.

What Makes Colorado Native Plants Ideal for Pollinator Gardens?

Native plants are those that have evolved in a specific region over thousands of years. In Colorado Springs, native plants are adapted to our high elevation, dry climate, and variable soils. They are:
  • Drought-tolerant, reducing water use Resistant to local pests and diseases
  • Well-suited to support native pollinators, which often can’t utilize the nectar or pollen from exotic species
  • Low maintenance once established, reducing the need for fertilizers or pesticides
By choosing native plants over non-native ornamentals, you’ll create a habitat that requires fewer resources and offers greater ecological value. For a detailed list on some of the best native plants to plant in your Colorado Springs garden, check out our previous blog post: 10 Native Plants to Incorporate in Your Colorado Springs Landscape.

Common Pollinators in Colorado Springs—and How to Attract Them

Different pollinators are attracted to different types of flowers based on characteristics like color, scent, shape, and blooming season. Here’s a closer look at some of the key pollinators in our area and the plants that best support them:

Native Bees

Native bees are the most efficient pollinators and come in a surprising variety of shapes and sizes. Some are solitary, like mason bees, while others, like bumblebees, are social.

Plants to Attract Native Bees:

  • Penstemon (Penstemon spp.) – tubular flowers rich in nectar
  • Blue Flax (Linum lewisii) – delicate morning-blooming flower favored by solitary bees
  • Rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa) – late-season blooms provide a crucial nectar source
  • Blanketflower (Gaillardia aristata) – long-blooming, drought-tolerant

Butterflies

Butterflies need both nectar sources for adults and host plants for their caterpillars. Monarchs are particularly dependent on milkweed, while other species use specific native shrubs and herbs.

Plants to Attract Butterflies:

  • Showy Milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) – essential for monarchs
  • Purple Coneflower (Echinacea angustifolia) – attracts a wide range of butterflies
  • Golden Currant (Ribes aureum) – early spring blooms and foliage for caterpillars
  • Silvery Lupine (Lupinus argenteus) – host plant for several butterfly species

Hummingbirds

Broad-tailed hummingbirds are a summer staple in Colorado Springs. They love bright, tubular flowers rich in nectar.

Plants to Attract Hummingbirds:

  • Scarlet Gilia (Ipomopsis aggregata) – bright red flowers are a favorite
  • Bee Balm (Monarda fistulosa) – fragrant and visually striking
  • Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus) – native and hummingbird-friendly

Moths and Beetles

Often overlooked, moths and beetles play important roles in pollination, especially during dawn and dusk.

Plants to Attract Moths and Beetles:

  • Evening Primrose (Oenothera spp.) – opens in the evening and attracts nocturnal moths
  • Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia) – early blooms for beetles and flies
  • Wax Currant (Ribes cereum) – important nectar source for moths

Designing a Native Pollinator Garden in Colorado Springs

A successful pollinator garden is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some important design principles to follow:

1. Layer Your Plantings

Use a combination of groundcovers, grasses, flowering perennials, and shrubs to provide shelter, food, and nesting spaces. The variety will also add depth and texture to your landscape.

2. Provide Continuous Bloom

Plan for flowers from early spring to late fall. Early bloomers like golden currant feed emerging pollinators, while fall plants like rabbitbrush sustain them through migration and winter prep.

3. Use Groupings

Plant flowers in clusters of three or more. Pollinators find larger patches more attractive and easier to feed on efficiently.

4. Support All Life Stages

Include host plants for caterpillars and nesting material like bare soil or hollow stems for bees. Avoid too much mulch—many native bees nest underground.

5. Provide Water and Shelter

A shallow dish with pebbles and clean water helps pollinators stay hydrated. Native grasses and low shrubs provide essential cover and overwintering habitat.

Note: For more detailed guidance and plant recommendations, consult local resources such as the Colorado Native Plant Society or the CSU Extension office.

Native Grasses: More Than Just Filler

Grasses are essential components of pollinator gardens, often serving as host plants, nesting habitat, or protection from wind and predators.

  • Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) – provides overwintering habitat
  • Blue Grama (Bouteloua gracilis) – Colorado’s state grass, supports insect diversity
  • Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) – useful in rain gardens and for erosion control

These grasses also help bind soil, conserve water, and provide architectural interest.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

When starting a native garden for pollinators, it’s easy to make missteps that can reduce its effectiveness:

  • Choosing cultivars over true native species – While pretty, cultivars may produce less nectar or pollen
  • Over-irrigating – Most native plants thrive in dry conditions; too much water can kill them
  • Using pesticides – Even “natural” options like neem oil can harm pollinators
  • Lacking plant variety – A monoculture doesn’t support diverse pollinator populations

Get Inspired: Garden Ideas for Different Spaces

Whether you have a small yard or expansive property, you can design a pollinator garden that works for your lifestyle and supports wildlife.

  • Patio gardens: Use native flowering perennials in pots, such as coneflower, bee balm, or blanketflower
  • Borders and edges: Line walkways or fences with clusters of flowering natives
  • Wildflower meadows: Convert unused lawn areas into native prairie plantings
  • Rain gardens: Combine pollinator plants with erosion control

How Fredell Enterprises Can Help

At Fredell Enterprises, we believe in landscaping that enhances your lifestyle and supports the local environment. With over 40 years of experience designing outdoor spaces that thrive in Colorado Springs’ climate, our team can help you select the right native plants, plan a pollinator-friendly layout, and bring your garden vision to life.

Our expert designers are familiar with the regional ecology and have extensive experience using native plants in custom garden layouts. Whether you’re looking to create a backyard haven for butterflies or integrate pollinator-friendly features into your larger landscape, we offer tailored solutions that are both beautiful and beneficial.

We can also assist with irrigation planning, hardscape integration, and selecting the right soil amendments to support your plants while protecting local waterways.

Ready to Plant Your Pollinator Paradise?

Whether you’re adding a small pollinator patch or transforming your entire yard, Fredell Enterprises is here to help. We offer customized landscape design services that balance beauty, sustainability, and function. Let us help you make your yard a haven for butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees.

Contact us today to get started on a landscape that’s as beneficial to local wildlife as it is beautiful to enjoy year-round.

Holiday Plant Care Tips for a Festive and Healthy Home

Holiday Plant Care Tips for a Festive and Healthy Home

Plants

Holiday Plant Care Tips for a Festive and Healthy Home

The holiday season is a time for celebration, warmth, and beautifully decorated homes filled with festive plants. From the majestic Christmas tree to the vibrant poinsettia, holiday greenery adds charm and cheer to any space. However, keeping your plants healthy and thriving throughout the season requires proper care. In this guide, we’ll explore practical tips for maintaining popular holiday plants and how Fredell Enterprises can assist in creating an outdoor landscape that matches your holiday spirit year-round.

Caring for Your Christmas Tree

A well-maintained Christmas tree serves as the centerpiece of holiday décor. Follow these tips to keep it fresh and beautiful throughout the season:

1. Choose the Perfect Tree:

Select a fresh tree with flexible, green needles that don’t fall off easily when touched. A fresh tree not only lasts longer but also brings a vibrant, natural aroma into your home.

2. Watering Is Key:

Immediately after bringing your tree home, trim about an inch off the trunk’s base to improve water absorption. Place it in a sturdy stand filled with water and top it off daily. A hydrated tree is less likely to dry out and drop needles.

3. Strategic Placement:

Keep your tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces, radiators, and vents. Excess heat can dry out the tree quickly, making it more susceptible to shedding needles and posing a fire risk.

4. Maintain Needle Retention:

To help the tree retain moisture, mist its branches lightly with water every few days. This is especially helpful if your home’s air tends to be dry during the winter months.

Outdoor Christmas Trees for Landscaping

If you love the look of a live Christmas tree outdoors, Fredell Enterprises can incorporate evergreen trees into your landscape design. These trees not only add a festive touch during the holidays but also provide year-round beauty and shade.

Poinsettia Care: Keeping This Festive Favorite Vibrant

Poinsettias, with their iconic red and green leaves, are a classic holiday decoration. Proper care ensures they remain vibrant throughout the entire holiday season.

1. Bright, Indirect Light:

Place your poinsettia in a location that receives ample bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch and fade.

2. Temperature Matters:

Poinsettias thrive in temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Keep them away from cold drafts, open windows, and heat vents to prevent stress.

3. Water Wisely:

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot. Empty any standing water from the plant’s saucer to prevent waterlogging.

4. Occasional Feeding:

Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer to support the plant’s health and maintain its vibrant color.
Fredell Enterprises can help you add festive flair to your outdoor landscape with poinsettia-inspired color schemes using other hardy plants suited to the Colorado Springs climate.

Other Holiday Plants and Their Unique Needs

Aside from Christmas trees and poinsettias, there are many other holiday plants to consider for festive décor. Here’s how to care for some popular options:

Amaryllis

  • Light Requirements: Place in bright, indirect light.
  • Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soggy, watering when the top inch feels dry.
  • Temperature: Protect it from cold drafts to encourage blooming.

Christmas Cactus

  • Light: Bright, indirect sunlight is ideal.
  • Watering: Water sparingly and only when the top layer of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
  • Bloom Encouragement: To encourage blooms, expose the cactus to cooler temperatures and reduced light for 6–8 weeks before the holidays.

Colorado Blue Spruce (a Living Holiday Tree)

  • Light: These hardy evergreens thrive outdoors in full sunlight. If brought indoors for the holidays, place them in a cool, bright location.
  • Watering: Water the root ball regularly, keeping it moist but not soggy.
  • Transition: After the holiday season, replant your Colorado Blue Spruce in your yard or garden. This beautiful native tree grows well in Colorado Springs and becomes a lasting part of your landscape.

Fredell Enterprises specializes in incorporating evergreens like Colorado Blue Spruce into custom landscape designs, ensuring your yard has seasonal charm and year-round beauty.

General Holiday Plant Care Tips

Holiday plants require a bit of extra attention to stay at their best. Here are some general tips for keeping all your festive plants healthy:

  • Monitor for Pests: Inspect your plants regularly for pests like aphids or spider mites, and take prompt action to eliminate them.
  • Avoid Drafts: Keep plants away from cold drafts, open doors, and heating vents, which can cause temperature fluctuations.
  • Dust Leaves: Use a soft cloth to gently dust the leaves of your plants. This helps them photosynthesize more efficiently and keeps them looking vibrant.
  • Rotate for Even Growth: If your plants are indoors, rotate them periodically so they grow evenly toward the light source.

Extending Festive Beauty Outdoors

Holiday plants don’t have to stay indoors! By incorporating seasonal plantings and festive landscaping elements, you can bring holiday cheer to your outdoor spaces as well. Fredell Enterprises specializes in designing outdoor landscapes that are perfect for every season. Whether you’re looking for evergreen arrangements, lighting installations, or unique planters, our team can create a winter wonderland right in your yard.

Why Choose Fredell Enterprises?

With decades of experience in landscaping design, Fredell Enterprises offers custom solutions for all your plant and landscape needs in Colorado Springs. From incorporating seasonal plants into your yard to creating stunning hardscapes, we work closely with homeowners to bring their visions to life.

Contact Fredell Enterprises today to ensure your outdoor and indoor plants flourish, not just for the holidays but all year long. Let us help you create a festive, vibrant space that showcases the beauty of the season!

Top Winter Plants to Add Color to Your Colorado Springs Landscape

Top Winter Plants to Add Color to Your Colorado Springs Landscape

Plants

Top Winter Plants to Add Color to Your Colorado Springs Landscape

Winter in Colorado Springs is a magical time, with snow-dusted peaks and crisp, clear air. However, the cold temperatures and shorter days can often leave your landscape looking drab and lifeless. Adding winter-hardy plants to your yard can infuse vibrancy and interest, even in the chilliest months. By incorporating carefully chosen plants, you can create a landscape that stays visually appealing all year long.

Here are some of the top winter plants to bring color and life to your Colorado Springs yard.

1. Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata)

  • Why it Works in Winter: Winterberry holly is a deciduous holly species that loses its leaves in the fall, leaving bright red berries that persist throughout the winter. These striking berries provide a vibrant splash of color and attract birds to your yard.
  • Ideal Conditions: Prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, acidic soil.
  • Care Tips: Pair female plants with at least one male plant for pollination to ensure berry production. Winterberry is also deer-resistant, making it a practical option for Colorado Springs homeowners. Harsh winds and extremely dry conditions may stress the plant, so extra winter watering can help.
  • Suitability: Winterberry holly can survive Colorado winters if planted in a protected area with well-draining soil. It prefers acidic soil, which may require amendment in some Colorado locations.

2. Evergreen Trees and Shrubs

  • Why it Works in Winter: Evergreens like Colorado Blue Spruce, Douglas Fir, and Juniper provide year-round color and structure to your landscape. Their shades of green, blue, and silver stand out beautifully against the snow.
  • Ideal Conditions: Adapted to the Colorado climate, these trees thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
  • Care Tips: Ensure proper spacing and mulching for long-term health, as compacted snow can damage branches. Mulch around the base to retain moisture during dry winter months. Prune carefully to maintain their shape and health.
  • Suitability: Evergreens such as Colorado Blue Spruce and Juniper are native to Colorado and thrive in the local climate.

3. Ornamental Grasses (e.g., Feather Reed Grass, Blue Fescue)

  • Why it Works in Winter: Ornamental grasses bring texture, movement, and golden hues to a winter landscape. Their seed heads catch frost beautifully, creating a stunning visual effect.
  • Ideal Conditions: They thrive in well-drained soil and are drought-tolerant once established, making them ideal for Colorado’s dry winters.
  • Care Tips: Leave grasses uncut during winter for added visual interest and to protect the crown. Prune back in early spring to encourage fresh growth.
  • Suitability: Most ornamental grasses, such as Blue Fescue and Feather Reed Grass, are well-adapted to Colorado’s dry winters and cold temperatures.

4. Hellebores (Helleborus spp.)

  • Why it Works in Winter: Also known as the “Christmas Rose,” hellebores are one of the few flowers that bloom in winter. Their nodding, cup-shaped flowers come in shades of white, pink, purple, and green.
  • Ideal Conditions: Hellebores prefer partial to full shade and well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
  • Care Tips: Mulch in the fall to protect the roots and enjoy their blooms even in snowy conditions. Ensure they’re planted in soil with good drainage to prevent root rot in icy, wet conditions.
  • Suitability: Hellebores can survive mild Colorado winters, especially when planted in sheltered areas or given mulch for root protection.

5. Red-Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea)

  • Why it Works in Winter: Known for its fiery red branches, red-twig dogwood provides a dramatic contrast to snowy backdrops. The vibrant stems retain their color throughout the cold months.
  • Ideal Conditions: Thrives in full sun to partial shade and tolerates a variety of soil types, including wet soil.
  • Care Tips: Prune older stems in late winter or early spring to encourage the growth of brightly colored new shoots.
  • Suitability: Red-twig dogwood is an excellent choice for Colorado winters. It tolerates cold temperatures and can even thrive in soggy or poor soils.

6. Pansies and Violas (Cold-Hardy Varieties)

  • Why it Works in Winter: Surprisingly resilient, certain pansy and viola varieties can survive light snow and frost, adding cheerful color to garden beds or containers.
  • Ideal Conditions: Thrive in well-drained soil and partial to full sun.
  • Care Tips: Plant in late fall and protect with mulch or fabric during extreme cold snaps.
  • Suitability: Cold-hardy varieties of pansies and violas can survive early winter but may need protection during extended freezing temperatures.

7. Witch Hazel (Hamamelis spp.)

  • Why it Works in Winter: Witch hazel is a deciduous shrub that blooms in late winter, producing fragrant, spidery flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
  • Ideal Conditions: Prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, acidic soil.
  • Care Tips: Plant in a location protected from harsh winds to ensure optimal flowering. Additional watering during dry spells is crucial.
  • Suitability: Witch hazel can tolerate Colorado’s winter temperatures, but it performs best in areas with consistent moisture and some wind protection.

8. Cotoneaster (Cotoneaster horizontalis)

  • Why it Works in Winter: This low-maintenance shrub features glossy green leaves that turn reddish-bronze in winter, along with clusters of bright red berries.
  • Ideal Conditions: Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
  • Care Tips: Once established, cotoneaster is drought-tolerant, making it a practical choice for Colorado Springs. However, it may need supplemental water during prolonged dry periods.
  • Suitability: Cotoneaster is highly adaptable and can withstand Colorado’s dry winters, making it a durable option for landscaping.

9. Evergreen Groundcovers (e.g., Creeping Juniper, Bearberry)

  • Why it Works in Winter: Groundcovers like creeping juniper and bearberry add low-growing green tones to your winter landscape while stabilizing soil and preventing erosion.
  • Ideal Conditions: Prefer full sun and are highly drought-tolerant, perfect for the Colorado climate.
  • Care Tips: Minimal maintenance required—just ensure proper spacing during planting for healthy growth. Bearberry also prefers slightly acidic soil, so amendments may be necessary.
  • Suitability: Creeping Juniper and Bearberry are excellent groundcover options for Colorado’s climate. They’re drought-tolerant and can handle freezing temperatures.

10. Viburnum (Viburnum nudum, Viburnum trilobum)

  • Why it Works in Winter: Certain viburnum species retain their berries into winter, offering a pop of red color that attracts wildlife.
  • Ideal Conditions: Viburnum thrives in full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
  • Care Tips: Prune selectively to maintain shape and encourage berry production. Ensure the plant gets adequate sunlight and moisture, especially during winter droughts.
  • Suitability: Certain viburnum species, such as Viburnum trilobum (American Cranberry Bush), can tolerate Colorado winters if planted in the right location.

Key Factors to Consider for Colorado Winter Landscaping:

  • Hardiness Zones: Colorado Springs is in USDA Hardiness Zones 5b-6a. Make sure plants are rated for these zones.
  • Soil Conditions: Many areas in Colorado have alkaline or clay-heavy soils. Soil amendments may be required to support some plants, especially acid-loving species.
  • Wind and Dry Air: Colorado’s dry climate and frequent winter winds can stress plants. Providing windbreaks and supplemental watering is essential.
  • Winter Watering: Many plants require occasional watering during dry winters to prevent root damage.
  • Mulching: Adding mulch around the base of plants helps insulate the soil and protect roots.

If you’re unsure about the suitability of a particular plant or need help with soil preparation, layout, or plant selection, Fredell Enterprises can assist you. As experts in Colorado Springs landscaping, we specialize in creating custom landscapes that thrive year-round in Colorado’s challenging climate. Let us help you design a winter-friendly garden that’s as beautiful in December as it is in July!

Designing Your Winter Landscape with Fredell Enterprises

A thoughtfully designed winter landscape can bring beauty and enjoyment to your yard, even during the coldest months. Whether you want to incorporate bold evergreens, delicate winter blooms, or vibrant berries, Fredell Enterprises can help. Our team of landscaping experts specializes in designing outdoor spaces that thrive year-round in Colorado Springs’ unique climate. We’ll work with you to select the perfect plants and create a landscape that’s as functional as it is beautiful.

Contact Fredell Enterprises today to start planning your winter-friendly landscape. Let us help you make the most of every season!

Top 10 Groundcover Options to Reduce Mowing and Watering Needs

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:

  1. Prepare the Soil: Groundcovers spread quickly, so invest time in preparing the soil. Remove weeds and add compost to improve soil quality and drainage.
  2. Plant in Appropriate Conditions: Match each plant’s sunlight and moisture needs to the right area of your garden for optimal growth.
  3. Mulch Around New Plants: Mulching can help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed competition as your groundcovers establish themselves.
  4. 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.

New Year, New Landscape: 2024 Trends for Colorado Springs Homes

New Year, New Landscape: 2024 Trends for Colorado Springs Homes

Landscape Design

New Year, New Landscape: 2024 Trends for Colorado Springs Homes

Hey Colorado Springs! Ready to shake off the winter dust and breathe some fresh life into your outdoor space? Buckle up, because 2024 is bursting with landscape trends that’ll turn your backyard into the envy of the neighborhood. Forget cookie-cutter yards, we’re talking unique, sustainable, and oh-so-inviting vibes that’ll have you practically living outdoors.

Trend #1: Sustainable Serenity:

Think beyond boring old turf! Xeriscaping is taking center stage, with drought-tolerant plants like agave, yucca, and ornamental grasses reigning supreme. Not only are they low-maintenance and water-wise, but they create a stunning desert-chic aesthetic that screams Colorado cool.

Trend #2: Fireside Feasting:

Who needs fancy restaurants when you’ve got a backyard oasis? Outdoor kitchens are on fire (not literally, unless you’re grilling!), with pizza ovens, built-in grills, and cozy seating becoming must-have elements. Picture this: crisp mountain air, crackling flames, and laughter echoing as you feast with friends and family under the stars.

Trend #3: Watery Wonderland:

Water features aren’t just for the rich and famous anymore. From babbling brooks to sparkling ponds, incorporating water elements adds a touch of tranquility and reflects the stunning beauty of the Rockies right in your backyard. Imagine the soothing sounds of water gurgling as you sip your morning coffee or unwind after a long day.

Trend #4: Edible Eden:

Forget the grocery store, plant your own! Raised garden beds bursting with fresh herbs, veggies, and even berries are not only trendy but also delicious. Imagine picking juicy tomatoes for your salad or fragrant basil for your pesto, all grown with your own green thumbs.

Trend #5: Cozy Corners:

Let’s face it, Colorado evenings can get chilly. But that doesn’t mean you have to hibernate! Create intimate and inviting spaces with fire pits, hammocks, and string lights. Picture snuggling up with a good book by the flickering flames or enjoying late-night chats with friends under a canopy of twinkling lights.

Bonus Trend:

Let the bugs buzz! Pollinator-friendly gardens are all the rage, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with vibrant blooms and fragrant herbs. Not only do they look gorgeous, but they also help our precious ecosys

Ready to transform your Colorado Springs landscape into a 2024 trendsetter? We at Fredell Enterprises can help! We’re passionate about creating vibrant, sustainable outdoor spaces that reflect your unique style and personality. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s bring your dream landscape to life!
Remember, Colorado Springs deserves a yard that’s as stunning as the mountains that surround it. So let’s embrace the trends, ditch the ordinary, and create an outdoor space that’s anything but boring! Happy New Year and happy landscaping!