Creating a Less Thirsty Landscape and Get up to $500
According to Denver Water, A full 40% of water that is used by their customers is used outdoors – typically to irrigate thirsty Kentucky Bluegrass. Denver Water hopes to reduce overall water consumption that is used for lawns by encouraging homeowners to transform their property to something more water friendly.
To that end, Denver Water is offering a special opportunity for homeowners to replace their lawn with a thriving “ColoradoScape”. A Coloradoscape takes many of the same elements from xeriscaping to create a “a diverse, sustainable landscape of water-wise plants and cooling trees that offer environmental benefits and interest throughout the year”.
This transition from Kentucky Bluegrass to a Coloradoscape not only caters to the local semi-arid climate but also nurtures wildlife and pollinator populations. You can incorporate a lush, water-efficient garden by taking advantage of up to $500 in savings through limited offers and a first-come-first-served approach.
The Lawn Replacement Program from Denver Water and Resource Central
Transform with Turf Removal
You can take action against water waste by replacing at least 200 square feet of your thirsty Kentucky bluegrass with a ColoradoScape featuring drought-tolerant plants and trees. Apart from the direct financial incentive, you’ll also save money by using less water and having a lower water bill.
Buffalo Grass is Native to Colorado and Can Withstand Temperature Extremes and Drought Conditions
Criteria for joining this turf transformation program includes an application containing the following information about your turf removal transformation:
- Removal of 200+ sq. ft. of lawn
- Submission of a transformation photo
- Plans for the new, water-wise space
Allowable Replacements for Your Lawn
- Plant Material – The application mentions that at least half of the lawn that has been removed must be replaced with plant material like perennial gardens or low water grasses (to name a few options)
- Decks and Patios – comprised of permeable materials, stone, and gravel
Artificial turf and non permeable materials like concrete aren’t allowed as part of the turf replacement. Water features are also not allowed due to their evaporative nature and extensive use of water.
Jumpstart with Garden In A Box
If you’re looking for a straightforward starting point, the Garden In A Box offer is for you. Claim your $25 discount and access a range of pre-designed, water-wise garden kits complete with plants catered to either shady or sunny spots.
Each kit includes:
- Plant-by-number design
- 60-100 sq. ft. coverage
- Detailed care guide
Secure your water-wise garden kit as soon as possible, with options for planting in spring or late summer.
Garden in a Box Water Wise Plants
Sustainable Savings and Environmental Gains
Last year alone, the Garden In A Box initiative led to the creation of over 300,000 square feet of new ColoradoScapes, anticipated to save a staggering 20 million gallons of water over their life span. This practice highlights a commitment to resource conservation while enriching the local habitat.
Steps for Transitioning to a Colorado-Inspired Landscape
Getting Started
To start transforming your lawn into a sustainable Colorado-influenced garden, take these steps:
- Plan your landscape design, focusing on native, low-water plants.
- Remove existing grass, which often requires more water.
- Prepare soil to suit new plant types.
- Choose appropriate plants and arrange them thoughtfully.
Recommended Native Plants for a Water-Efficient Garden
For a water-wise garden, consider these native plants:
- Perennials: Blue Mist Spirea, Chocolate Flower
- Shrubs: Three-Leaf Sumac, Rabbitbrush
- Grasses: Blue Grama, Buffalograss
Maintaining a Healthy Colorado Landscape
To keep your Colorado garden thriving, do the following:
- Water wisely, using drip irrigation systems on timers.
- Mulch bare soil to retain moisture.
- Prune plants to remove dead or diseased parts.
