June 23, 2026

Planning a Resilient Garden in Times of Drought

Colorado experienced a record-low snow pack this year, and unseasonably hot, dry conditions have persisted into spring and summer. Currently, 95 percent of the state is experiencing drought, with 36 percent classified as extreme drought.  

Given these conditions, now is an ideal time to start planning a climate-resilient garden. Incorporating drought-tolerant plants can significantly reduce water use compared to a Kentucky bluegrass lawn—even during the establishment phase. Here are some tips to limit water use when transforming your landscape. 

  • Choose low-water native plants – Because native plants are adapted to local drought conditions, they are a practical, water-efficient choice. Plants adapted for Northern Colorado include sulphur buckwheat, gaillardia, Engelmann’s daisy, blue grama grass and dwarf leadplant. Many penstemon species also perform well along the Front Range, along with native grasses like little bluestem, June grass and switchgrass. For shady spots, choose wildflowers such as sticky geranium and columbines.
Green cactus on a bed of rocks with yellow and orange flowers
  • Plant densely – Increasing plant density helps reduce evaporation by shading the soil surface. A fuller landscape can also help cool the landscape and improve moisture retention.
  • Smaller plant sizes – Smaller plants need less time and water to establish. Because new plantings need more frequent watering, a shorter establishment phase will ultimately save water.
  • Group plants of similar water needs together – Plants within the same irrigation zone should have comparable water requirements, since watering must meet the needs of the thirstiest plant. Grouping plants of similar water needs saves water and avoids overwatering. Hand water plants that need additional hydration.
  • Plant on a cooler day and time – Select a cooler day and plant early in the morning. Extreme heat can shock plants, so water them well before the day heats up.  
  • Mulch with squeegee – While wood mulch can limit evaporation and suppress weeds, it may also prevent natural precipitation from reaching the soil. Squeegee (a fine rock mulch) allows precipitation to percolate directly to the soil. Apply a 3 to 4 inch layer to help to control weeds and keep moisture in the soil.
  • Drip irrigation or hand watering – When transitioning a landscape, consider converting from overhead irrigation to drip. Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the plant roots. Hand watering is also a good option if adding drip irrigation isn't possible. 
  • Water in the evening or early morning – Water between 6 p.m. and 10 a.m. when the air temperatures are cooler and the sun is low to prevent loss from evaporation.
  • Water deeply and infrequently – During establishment, soak the soil deeply a few times a week. This encourages plants to grow deeper root systems making the more resilient and less dependent on frequent surface watering. Once established, most plants will require watering only once a week.

To learn more about gardening with plants native to Colorado, visit the Colorado Native Plant Society’s website. Plant Select offers many plant varieties native to Colorado. Front Range Wild Ones offers plant lists, webinars and other educational materials about native plant gardening. Northern Water’s Water Efficiency website includes information about local programs, articles and downloadable water-efficient landscape templates.