Save Colorado Water in 2025: Practical Tips for Backyard Denver Gardeners and Homeowners
As Coloradans, water conservation is not just a good practice—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just looking to make your landscape more sustainable, there are simple yet impactful steps you can take to reduce water usage while keeping your yard vibrant and functional. Let’s explore actionable ways to save Colorado water in 2025, specifically tailored for Denver and surrounding areas.
1. Plant More Waterwise Plants
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Native plants and drought-tolerant perennials are the MVPs of water conservation. They’re not only beautiful but also resilient, thriving with less water and maintenance.
Consider incorporating native grasses, flowering perennials like yarrow and penstemon, or shrubs such as rabbitbrush into your garden. These plants naturally adapt to Colorado’s climate, helping you save water without sacrificing aesthetic appeal.
2. Install Drip Irrigation Systems
Drip irrigation systems deliver water directly to the roots of your plants, minimizing evaporation and runoff. They’re perfect for vegetable gardens, flower beds, and even container plants.
If you’re setting up a new garden bed or retrofitting an existing one, a drip irrigation system is a game-changer for efficient watering.
3. Water Your Lawn Less Frequently but More Deeply
Frequent, shallow watering promotes shallow root growth, making your lawn less drought-tolerant. Instead, water deeply and less often to encourage roots to grow deeper into the soil, where they can access moisture even during dry spells. In Denver’s semi-arid climate, this practice is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn with minimal water use.
Read Next: Zero Waste Garden: Practical Tips for Sustainable Gardening in Denver, Colorado
4. Mow Your Lawn Higher and Less Often
Set your lawnmower blade higher to allow your grass to grow taller. Taller grass shades the soil, reducing evaporation and helping the lawn retain moisture. Coupled with less frequent mowing, this practice conserves water and keeps your lawn healthier.
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5. Adjust Your Sprinklers
Take a walk around your yard and check your sprinklers for overspray or leaks. Adjust them so they’re watering plants and grass—not sidewalks or driveways. This small tweak can significantly reduce wasted water and ensure every drop goes where it’s needed most.
6. Turn Off Sprinklers During the Heat of the Day or when it’s windy
Watering in the middle of the day leads to significant water loss due to evaporation. Instead, water early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler, and your plants can absorb the moisture more effectively.
7. Use a Smart Controller
Smart sprinkler controllers automatically adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions, ensuring you’re not watering during rain or high winds. They’re a simple way to save water while keeping your landscape thriving.
8. Convert Kentucky Bluegrass to a Waterwise lawn Alternative
Traditional lawns, like Kentucky bluegrass, are notorious water guzzlers. Consider replacing sections of your lawn with xeriscaping, which incorporates native plants, decorative rocks, and mulch to create a stunning, low-water landscape. If you’re not ready to fully transition, start small by converting less-used areas.
9. Turn Your Non-Functional Lawn into Xeriscape
Non-functional lawns—those that aren’t used for recreation or aesthetics—are prime candidates for xeriscaping. This approach not only saves water but also provides an opportunity to create pollinator-friendly habitats. Think of it as giving your lawn a makeover that benefits both you and the environment.
Need Help Saving Water in Your Landscape?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed about where to start, Auntie M’s Garden is here to help. We specialize in designing sustainable, water-efficient landscapes tailored for Denver’s unique climate.
Our Landscape Design Services include:
Virtual and in-person consultations.
Custom landscape designs featuring native plants, waterwise alternatives, and pollinator-friendly options.
A personalized roadmap to help you achieve a stunning, low-water garden.
Start saving water while creating a landscape you love. Sign up for a consultation today!
Water is one of Colorado’s most precious resources, and as gardeners and homeowners, we have the power to make a difference. By implementing these practical steps, you’re not just saving water—you’re building a more sustainable future for our community.
Let’s resolve to make 2025 the year of waterwise gardening. Together, we can grow thriving gardens while conserving the resources that make Colorado such a beautiful place to call home. 🌱
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Meet the Gardener
I’m Elisa Mack - a mom and Denverite who went from being a green-ish thumb to a kitchen garden fanatic simply by dedicating myself to the study of all things Colorado gardening.
Landscapers don’t design. And nurseries don’t make house calls.
We take a more full-service approach, from designing your dream garden to keeping it beautiful year-round.
And as your coach, I’ll help eliminate the guesswork through every season, no matter your level of knowledge.
