Go Native! Growing Native Plants (by Lisa Bird)

Q: I’d like to grow some native plants in my landscape this year. Will they take less water and be easier to care for?

Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja spp.)

A: As summer quickly approaches the unseasonably warm temperatures and lack of moisture this past winter has most gardeners concerned. The need to be water-wise in the landscape is increasingly important. There is a growing trend in Colorado to incorporate native plants into the landscape. This is a good idea in our arid climate.

Native plants are already adapted to our lean soils, extreme temperatures, and low moisture. Using them creates continuity with our natural surroundings. By planting natives in our gardens we support native plant communities that provide food and shelter for wildlife and help maintain biological diversity.