Keeping your Colorado garden healthy and water-wise is all about timing, technique, and using the right tools. With our high-altitude sun, dry climate, and temperature swings, a little strategy goes a long way. Whether you’re growing grass, veggies, or a pollinator-friendly yard, JAX has the gear and guidance to help you water smarter—not harder.
When to Water
The best time to water in Colorado is early morning, between 5–9 a.m. This helps reduce evaporation and allows plants to absorb moisture before the heat of the day sets in. Evening watering is your second-best option, but it can increase the risk of mildew and pests if plants stay too wet overnight. Avoid midday watering—it’s inefficient and can actually scorch your plants.
How to Water Efficiently
• Water deeply and less often. This encourages deep root growth and more resilient plants. Shallow, frequent watering can lead to weak roots and water waste.
• Use the right tools. Soaker hoses and drip systems deliver water right to the roots—exactly where it’s needed.
• Mulch your beds. Mulch retains moisture, reduces evaporation, and helps control weeds.
JAX Has What You Need
Whether you're setting up a new garden or upgrading your backyard system, JAX carries a wide selection of watering tools:
• Hoses: From durable garden hoses to flexible lightweight options.
• Sprayers & Nozzles: Adjustable heads for gentle watering or high-power jet spray.
• Sprinklers: Great for lawns, from rotating to oscillating styles.
• Automated Timers & Smart Irrigation Systems: Set it and forget it! Perfect for busy schedules or going on vacation.
Stop by and our team will help you find the right setup for your space.
What to Plant in Colorado
Grass Varieties
Cool-season grasses do best in our region. Top choices include:
• Kentucky Bluegrass: Known for its deep green color and soft texture, this popular lawn grass thrives with regular watering. It’s a classic choice for yards where appearance is a top priority.
• Tall Fescue: This grass is drought-tolerant with deep roots, making it ideal for less frequent watering. Its coarser blades stand up well to foot traffic and varying weather.
• Fine Fescue Blends: Perfect for shaded or partially sunny areas, these low-maintenance grasses require less water and mowing, making them great for eco-conscious homeowners.
• Buffalograss: A native, warm-season option that requires minimal water and mowing. It turns golden in winter and comes back strong in spring, making it a top pick for xeriscapes.
Native & Climate-Friendly Plants
These plants are adapted to Colorado’s dry climate and thrive with minimal watering once established. Many also support local pollinators and wildlife.
• Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus): With tall spikes of vivid blue or purple flowers, this perennial is a hummingbird favorite and adds height and texture to garden beds.
• Blue Flax (Linum lewisii): A graceful, airy plant that blooms with sky-blue flowers each morning. Its fine stems and drought tolerance make it perfect for naturalizing.
• Blanketflower (Gaillardia aristata): Bright, daisy-like blooms in red, orange, and yellow attract butterflies and bring long-lasting color to your landscape.
• Rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus): A tough, woody shrub with golden yellow fall blooms. It thrives in poor soil and is an important late-season nectar source for pollinators.
• Yarrow (Achillea millefolium): With feathery foliage and flat-topped flower clusters in white, pink, or yellow, yarrow is incredibly hardy, drought-resistant, and spreads easily.
• Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia): This native shrub or small tree provides four-season interest with white spring flowers, edible summer berries, vibrant fall color, and winter structure. It also supports birds and beneficial insects.
These plants don’t just survive in Colorado—they thrive, while saving water and supporting the environment.
In Summary:
Water early, water smart, and choose plants that are built for Colorado. Whether you're dialing in your irrigation system or starting a xeriscape, JAX has the gear and the know-how to get you growing. Visit us in-store or online to explore our full selection of watering tools, timers, and native seeds!
