A lot of folks dread gardening in Fort Collins, Colorado, because of the low humidity, dry winds, and alkaline soils here. But the region is known to grow some marvelous flowers and excellent vegetables. The trick is to choose plants that can efficiently handle the weather and soil conditions of the place.
That’s why it is vital to choose plants from local Fort Collins greenhouse services, as they can survive and grow well in these conditions. So, while gardening in the region may have a reputation for being challenging, it isn’t impossible.
Fort Collins planting calendar
Many gardeners in Fort Collins refer to a planting calendar. It is a guide customized with their closest weather station that tells them the appropriate time to start planting. For instance, they tell you about ‘Frost Dates,’ or the best planting dates, by studying your local average weather. They also tell you about plant seedling dates – young Colorado plants meant to grow outdoors.
Drip irrigation
Fort Collins can be on the drier side, and that’s why it is important to water your plants adequately. Unless, of course, you have plants that can survive on less water. A drip irrigation system is preferable as it can save time and human effort. This method uses a tube with several small drippers that transport water directly to the plant roots. You can have an automatic sprinkler or water timer for greater convenience.
Greenhouse plants
Organically grown plants from local Fort Collins greenhouse services are key to successful gardening at home. From shrubs and grasses to bulbs and conifers, the variety is endless. Popular Fort Collins plants include Snowdrop, Daisy Bush, Fuschia, Crocus, and Feather Grass, to name a few.
Several gardeners prefer shrubs that need very little care and water. Varieties of these include Buffaloberry, Mountain Mahogany, and Serviceberry.
Vegetable gardens in Fort Collins
The kind of vegetables that are grown in Fort Collins depend on the changing seasons. It is essential to determine which variety can withstand frost and which ones cannot. For instance, vegetables like cabbage, kale, broccoli, and lettuce are resistant to frost and can be planted during fall and spring. On the other hand, corn, beans, tomatoes, and pepper cannot survive frost and need to be planted during late spring or early summer.
Changing seasons
Gardening in Fort Collins involves keeping the climate and weather conditions in mind. For instance, Fort Collins receives an incredible average of 48 inches of snow each year, which can sometimes mean heavy snowfall. In such cases, the trees in a yard should protect the house.
Popular choices include oaks, lindens, and conifers, which are excellent at protecting the building.
Landscape design
Planting the front and backyard with diverse native flora in a random order will not make it a garden. A sound landscape design made with plenty of thought and planning is essential to create a good-looking garden.
Besides listing out the beautiful plants and shrubs that will go into the garden, your landscape design must also take into account any extra structures such as fountains, seating areas, etc.