Do you have a question regarding your lawn, health of your tree, or why you don’t have any tomatoes this year? We are here to help. Colorado Master Gardeners of Douglas County are answering your questions 7 days a week by email. Contact them at dcmgardenr@gmail.com.
Gardening in Douglas County
Gardening in Colorado can be challenging. The high altitude (elevations in Douglas County range from 5,000 to 8,000ft), the drying winds, the unpredictable weather, and the heavy clay soils can make even the most stalwart gardener through up their hands in despair. The variability of the terrain in our area creates disparate microclimates – one type of plant may be fabulous in a neighbor’s yard but fail miserably in yours.
The key to gardening in our region is working with the climate and landscape instead of against it. We have more sun then most places on earth, low humidity that keeps most diseases at bay, and cool nights that create ideal growing conditions for many plants – they just might not be the same plants that grow in most other places. While rhododendrons, hydrangeas, and boxwood are just not cut out for our conditions there are many great plants that are. CSU Extension can help you to discover the plants that work in Douglas County and give advice on how to maintain and care for your yard.
Timely Tips for Winter
Master Gardeners provide useful information to help your gardening efforts all year long. Email the helpdesk or call 720-733-6935 to ask your question! (Phone coverage is irregular due to COVID, for fastest response; use email!)
Drink up and Bundle up!
Due to our semi-arid climate, desiccating winds, intense sunshine, and extended periods without moisture, your plants may not be getting the water they need. If the ground isn’t frozen and the top inch or two of soil is dry, plants like trees, shrubs, and turf could use a drink. Water when temperatures are above freezing and the ground is free of snow.
A layer of mulch 3-4″ think will help protect the ground from damaging freeze-thaw cycles and help keep water in the soil.
Don’t forget tree wrap! Protect tree trunks exposed to the sun with paper tree-wrap. Thin- or smooth-barked trees are the most vulnerable to damage from winter sunburn.
