How to Create a Colorado-Inspired Backyard Oasis
Colorado is one of the most unique landscapes in the United States. If your heart lies in Colorado but your home has moved elsewhere, you might want to take some inspiration from the state to bring some Colorado-inspired decor into your backyard paradise. Here’s how to create a backyard oasis that’s inspired by Colorado, including getting things like the soil and plants right for your climate.
How to Create a Colorado-Inspired Backyard Oasis
Assess What You’ve Got
Any smart gardener or landscaper starts by taking a look at what they’ve got. Answer important questions about the space, including how much area you have to work with and what immediate changes you would like to make.
Everyone likes to visualize in a different way. Some people prefer making a list, while others will rope in software to create a 3D model of their house. That’s up to you! As long as you can picture your space, and picture what you’d like to achieve.
Get the Soil Right
If you want to bring homage to Colorado with your landscape or garden, get the soil right.
According to the Colorado Department of Agriculture, soil in Colorado mostly consists of clay and sand. Sand and clay is a great environment for some plants, but make it a nightmare to maintain others. Not everything grows in the mixture of sand-soil clay that Colorado is known for. Fortunately, there are many tree types and plant varieties that flourish in this environment.
It starts with making sure you have the best mix to approximate Colorado soil, no matter where in the world you’re hoping to create your oasis.
Approximate the Rainfall
Rainfall is specific in Colorado, and it might not be the same amount(s) of rainfall that you’re going to deal with if you were halfway across the country (or the world). Approximate the rainfall for Colorado, and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
Plants and the surroundings can be fooled into thinking they’re habituating close to Colorado conditions, even if that’s not your actual location.
Trees in Colorado
Trees that flourish in Colorado state include the blue spruce, the Douglas fir, and the Quaking Aspen tree. The Forestry Department of Colorado can help you establish which trees and plants will flourish most in your area. If any plants do not fit with the theme, relocate them. Many nurseries are happy to accept plant donations for their collection if it’s something special that you just can’t fit into your space.
Plant Right
A Colorado-inspired backyard oasis isn’t just about the trees, but just as much about the plants that inhabit your space. Plant right, and go for plants that flourish in Colorado (but that can adapt to other areas).
Suggestions include the Rocky Mountain beeplant, the Mountain Mahogany, and the Western Wallflower. There are more options for avid gardeners who want an environment inspired by Colorado – and with the right watering schedule and rainfall, it’s not hard to achieve.
Landscape
Remember that the key to creating a Colorado-inspired backyard oasis is to embrace the natural beauty, tranquility, and rugged charm of the Rocky Mountains. The goal is to have a space where you can relax, enjoy the outdoors, and feel connected to the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado.
SOLMAUNA Creations & Landscaping Designs in Colorado
Our team of landscape designers brings a unique combination of landscape architecture education paired with extensive knowledge of plants to the table. Contact us today.
