The Ultimate Guide to Plant Selection for Denver Landscapes: Real-World Tips for Gardens That Thrive

Why Plant Selection in Denver Is a Whole Different Ballgame

If you’ve ever tried to grow a lush garden in Denver, you already know it’s not exactly a walk in the park. Between the high altitude, wild temperature swings, and our famously dry, four-season weather, it sometimes feels like you need a horticulture degree just to keep a flower alive! But here’s the good news: with the right approach—and a little help from folks who’ve been doing this for decades—you can absolutely create a landscape that’s both gorgeous and built to last.

At Phase One Landscapes, we’ve been helping Denver homeowners transform their outdoor spaces since 1987. Over the years, we’ve learned what works, what doesn’t, and all the little tricks that make a garden pop in Colorado’s unique climate. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the best plants for your Denver yard. We’ll cover the ins and outs of our local climate, spotlight plant superstars, share seasonal tips, and even fess up to some common mistakes (because hey, we’ve all made them).

Ready to turn your landscape dreams into reality? Let’s dig in.

Understanding Denver’s Climate and Soil: It’s Not Just Dirt and Weather

Let’s start with the basics—because in Denver, the basics are anything but basic.

Our Climate in a Nutshell:

Denver is what you’d call “semi-arid,” which is a fancy way of saying we don’t get much rain. The sun is strong, the air is dry, and the temperature can swing 40 degrees in a single day. One minute you’re basking in sunshine; the next, you’re grabbing a sweater.

And the soil?

Most of us are dealing with clay-heavy soil. It holds water like a sponge after a rainstorm, then cracks and hardens when things dry out. Not exactly a plant paradise, right? But with the right amendments—think compost and organic matter—you can turn even the toughest soil into a welcoming home for roots.

Why Does This Matter?

Well, picking the wrong plants for these conditions is like inviting a penguin to a desert picnic. It’s just not going to end well. That’s why having a pro on your side (hint: like us at Phase One Landscapes) can save you a lot of frustration—and money.

Curious about how we tackle the landscaping challenges associated with the local climate? Check out our Denver landscape construction services & process page.

The All-Star Plant Categories for Denver Gardens

Let’s get to the fun part: choosing plants! Here’s a quick rundown of the categories that shine brightest in Denver’s unique environment.

Native Plants: Nature’s MVPs

If you take away one tip from this article, let it be this: native plants are your best friends. These are the plants that have been thriving here long before the first lawn mower ever arrived.

• Why they rock: They need less water, shrug off pests, and support local birds and pollinators.
• A few favorites: Rocky Mountain Penstemon (those purple blooms are stunning!), Golden Columbine, and Prairie Coneflower.

I remember a client who was convinced nothing could survive her “brown thumb.” We filled her yard with native Penstemon and Columbine, and now she’s the proud owner of the greenest yard on the block—without breaking a sweat.

Drought-Tolerant/Xeriscape Choices: Water Savers

With water getting more precious every year, drought-tolerant plants (think xeriscaping) are a smart move.

• Why bother? Less watering, less fuss, and they still look fantastic.
• Top picks: Russian Sage (tough as nails), Yarrow (comes in a rainbow of colors), Blue Fescue (a cool, grassy accent).

Trees & Shrubs: The Backbone of Your Landscape

These guys are the long-term anchors. Choose wisely, and you’ll enjoy shade, privacy, and beauty for decades.

• Best bets: Serviceberry (edible berries, too!), Gambel Oak, Austrian Pine.

Flowers & Perennials: Year-Round Color

Don’t settle for a yard that only looks good one month out of the year. Mix in perennials and flowers for constant color.

• Suggestions: Blanket Flower (so cheerful!), Beardtongue, Ice Plant (yep, it really does look icy).

Groundcovers & Grasses: More Than Just a Lawn

Who says you need wall-to-wall grass? Groundcovers and ornamental grasses offer texture, control erosion, and keep things interesting.

• Try these: Creeping Thyme (smells amazing), Buffalo Grass, Blue Grama.

Want to see how these choices can work with your outdoor living space? Our “Portfolio Page” highlights the integration of native plantings.

Seasonal Planting Strategies: Timing Is Everything

Ever plant something in July, only to watch it wilt by August? Trust me, you’re not alone. Here’s how to play the long game:

• Spring: Great for planting perennials, trees, and shrubs. Roots get a head start before summer heat.
• Summer: Focus on tough, drought-tolerant flowers and grasses. They’ll handle the heat like champs.
• Fall: Perfect for new trees and spring-blooming bulbs. Cooler temps help roots settle in.
• Winter: Time for evergreens and structure. These plants keep your landscape lively, even under a dusting of snow.

We always tell our clients: “A little planning now means less work (and worry) later.” Our designs keep your yard looking good, no matter the season.

Design Considerations: It’s More Than Just Picking Pretty Plants

Here’s where the magic happens—blending plants with patios, paths, and all the other elements that make your yard uniquely yours.

• Layering: Start tall (trees), then work down to shrubs, perennials, and groundcovers. It’s like composing music—every note matters.
• Color & Texture: Mix it up! Combine different shapes, leaf sizes, and bloom times for year-round interest.
• Professional Plans: Trust us, a good planting plan is worth its weight in gold. It prevents overcrowding and ensures every plant has its moment to shine.

Thinking about a big change? Let’s talk about elevating your outdoor living space with Phase One’s Denver landscape design services.

Expert Tips from the Phase One Landscapes Team

We’ve seen it all, so here are a few nuggets of wisdom:

• Sun vs. Shade: Pay attention to where the light falls in your yard. Some plants love baking in the sun, others prefer a little afternoon shade.
• Plan for Growth: That tiny shrub at the nursery? It’s not staying tiny forever. Give everything room to spread out.
• Go Low-Maintenance: Who wants to spend every weekend weeding? Pick plants that look good with minimal fuss.
• Hydrozoning: Group plants with similar water needs. It saves water and makes care easier.
• Leverage Experience: We’ve won awards for our softscape designs—because we blend beauty with practicality.

Oops! Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Let’s be real: everyone makes mistakes. Here are a few we see all the time:

• Water-Hog Plants: They might look pretty, but they’ll struggle (and so will your water bill).
• All Lawn, No Variety: Lawns are fine, but mixing in native groundcovers is way more sustainable.
• Skipping Soil Prep: Healthy soil = healthy plants. Don’t skimp here.
• Planting at the Wrong Time: Timing is everything. Follow the seasonal tips above for best results.

Why Work with a Pro? (Hint: It’s More Than Just Planting)

We get it, DIY landscaping planting is tempting. But there’s a reason so many Denver homeowners turn to Phase One Landscapes. We don’t just drop in a few plants and call it a day. Our team brings together design, installation, and long-term care, all under one roof.

• Design and Build: We handle everything, so you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors.
• Award Winning Work: Our projects have been turning heads since 1987.
• Ongoing Care: We offer maintenance programs to keep your landscape looking sharp.

Ready to Get Started? Let’s Make Your Denver Garden Flourish

If you’re tired of trial and error, or just want a yard that makes you smile every time you step outside, we’re here for you! Request an appointment with Phase One Landscapes and let’s create a custom planting plan that fits your vision, your lifestyle, and Denver’s one-of-a-kind climate.

Contact us today to learn more about our full range of Denver landscape design and build services and see what’s possible.

We’re excited to help you build a landscape that’s beautiful, sustainable, and uniquely yours—no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.

Extra Resources

• CSU Extension: Colorado Gardening
• Denver Botanic Gardens: Plant Finder

Thanks for reading! If you have more questions about Denver landscaping in general, plant selection, or just want to chat about your dream garden? We’re always happy to help—just reach out by phone at 303-750-6060