Introduction

Colorado’s wild temperature swings, hard freezes, and dry conditions make landscaping challenging — especially when growing non-native plants that many people expect to see in a beautiful yard.

But as drought continues to affect many parts of the state, it may be time for homeowners to adjust expectations and start landscaping smarter by using native plants.

What Are Native Plants?

Native plants are plants that naturally grow in a specific region without human introduction. Because they evolved in the local climate and soil conditions, they are much better suited to survive and thrive.

These plants also have an important relationship with the local ecosystem and wildlife.

Native plants help support:

• Birds
• Bees
• Butterflies
• Pollinators
• Local insects
• Soil health

For example, Monarch butterflies lay their eggs only on milkweed plants. Without milkweed, Monarch populations cannot survive. Many birds also rely on insects that live on native plants — and insects are the primary food source for about 96% of songbirds.

Native Plants Save Water and Maintenance

Non-native plants can look beautiful, but they often require:

• More watering
• More fertilizer
• More maintenance
• More protection from weather

Native plants, on the other hand, are already adapted to Colorado’s environment. This means they typically require less water, less maintenance, and fewer resources.

That makes them a great long-term investment for homeowners looking to reduce maintenance and water usage.

Native Plants to Consider in Colorado

If you’re thinking about adding native plants to your landscape, consider:

Rocky Mountain Columbine
A delicate but hardy flower that thrives in Colorado’s climate and adds beautiful color to landscapes.

Yarrow
A flowering perennial that adds color outdoors and can also be used as a cut flower indoors.

Adding more native plants to your yard supports the ecosystem, saves water, and reduces maintenance — making them a smart choice for sustainable landscaping.