We love seeing the array ofpinks, purples, and yellows while strolling through Denver's vibrant neighborhoods. Your garden can be just as cheerful with just a few simple steps.While Denver's dry heat creates an inhospitable environment for certain shrubs and flowers, there is still an abundance of plants that thrive here and plenty of fun ways to help your garden grow! Keep reading to discover our favorite native Colorado plants and our best tips for a lush and thriving garden this summer!
1. Xeriscape Your Denver Yard
Xeriscaping is a style of landscape design that requires little or no irrigation, making it both sustainable and low-maintenance. Start your summer garden with shrubs and plants that are native to Colorado and are therefore more likely to survive in Denver's arid conditions. Bonus: Because a xeriscaped yard takes less water, it's more environmentally friendly. Here are a few of our favorite colorful native Colorado plants for your yard.
Pro Tip: If you see a plant you love while out and about, take a photo and bring it to your local garden center where they can identify it and give you planting and care tips.
2. Try Containers and Planters in Your Garden
Containers and planters are a great way to start small if you're new to gardening plusthey keep things tidy, preventing overgrowth and deterring weeds. Getting creative with the planters you use also adds visual interest and uniqueness to your home. Wooden planters are the traditional route, but aluminum works well, or you could try an old clawfoot tub. Bonus: Raised beds save your back from stooping over.
3. Use Annuals for Pops of Color
Bees love colorful flowers and so do we! Reserve a small patch of your yard for annuals and have somefun with it. Change it up year to year to find the perfect mix of color, height, and interest. Annuals do require more water so be sure to water them in the morning before the heat sets in.

If you're a condo or apartment dweller or you've got a great rooftop deck you'd like to bring more life to, we've got you covered with these additional tips for creating your own urban balcony garden. However you choose to grow your garden, plants and flowers bring a sense of peace and joy to your space and make it feel more like home.
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