Wheat Ridge 2020

a resident’s guide to
HOME LANDSCAPING
IN WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO

MAY 2010
a message from
WHEAT RIDGE 2020
3798 MARSHALL STREET, SUITE 7, WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO 80033
OFFICE: 720-259-1030 FAX: 303-940-9332 WEBSITE: www.wheatridge2020.org

Wheat Ridge is a community of gracious and large sized yards. Since a majority of the homes were built
in the post WWII era through the 1980’s, home landscaping has matured and often requires extensive
maintenance and water consumption. This manual is intended to give homeowners ideas for updating
and beautifying yards and developing landscaping water conservation practices.

In 2008, Wheat Ridge 2020 and the Colorado Center for Community Development collaborated on a
Ranch House Renovation: Design Idea Book. The manual was a visual resource to show homeowners
the many options which exist for architecturally “reinventing” the older homes in the community to
meet modern day lifestyles. Given the enthusiasm generated by the Design Idea Book, the idea arose
for a landscape yard manual to complement the renovation guide.

Acknowledgements
Wheat Ridge2020 would like to acknowledge our partnership with the Colorado Center for Commu-
nity Development (CCCD) and third year graduate landscape architecture students Christine Clark and
Bethany Clark in the development of this manual. The students rendered the conceptual landscape
plans, provided much of the photography and the landscape resources cited.

CCCD
Judith Bergquist, Project Manager
Campus Box 128, P.O. Box 173364
Denver, CO 80217-3364
303-556-6650

Wheat Ridge 2020 would like to acknowledge Wheat Ridge residents and landscape architects Suzanne
Teale and Scott Ohm for their assistance in the development of this manual.

Scott Ohm Suzanne Teale

Grounded By Design, LLC. Landscape Architect
P.O. Box 1953 4079 Field Drive
Wheat Ridge, CO 80034 Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
www.groundedbydesign.com Email: [email protected]
Office: (303) 872.7807 Office: (303) 940.0678

Disclaimer
This book and the design concepts contained within are for conceptual purposes only. The user should
consider using professional design services for their landscape project.

i
a special thanks to
OUR SPONSORS

A&J TIME RENTALS, INC.

Propane sales and service, horse and utility trailers
PH: (303) 423-7448
11401 W. 44th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

ABNER’S GARDEN CENTER

www.abnersgardencenter.com
PH: (303) 424-0180 / FAX: (303) 424-6048
12280 West 44th Avenue., Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

YOUNG’S MARKET & GARDEN CENTER

Christmas trees, wreaths, poinsettias
PH: (303) 422-8408
9400 West 44th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

ii
City of Wheat Ridge
LANDSCAPE REGULATIONS
Prior to the start of any landscape project it is important to discuss your plan with city staff to
understand the code requirements that may apply to your design. Also some activities such as site
grading or the construction of a retaining wall may require a permit. The following departments
can provide you with helpful information. All of the departments referenced below can be accessed
through the city’s web site www.ci.wheatridge.co.us.

Community Development Department

7500 W. 29th Avenue, Second Floor
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
303-235-2805

The Community Development Department is a good first stop to get general information about zoning
and building code regulations that may impact your property and the particular landscape design you
have in mind.

Parks and Recreation Department

4005 Kipling Street
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
303-231-1309

The Parks and Recreation Department licenses all tree cutting and maintenance companies to work
in the city. For a list of licensed contractors, consult the department’s web site. On the home page of
the Parks and Recreation Department there is a link to “Trees and Gardens”. On this webpage note the
section titled “Resources” and click on “Licensed Tree Care Companies List”.

Police Department
Code Enforcement Division
7500 W. 29th Avenue
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
303-235-2926

The Police Department’s Code Enforcement Division is responsible for enforcing the city’s property
maintenance regulations. The division can assist residents and businesses in understanding their
responsibilities related to property and yard maintenance. Information on the division is found under
the Police Department’s web page on the city’s web site. Follow the link to Code Enforcement.

iii
a look ahead...
1 the evolution of residential yards in Wheat Ridge
2 climate and soil conditions in Wheat Ridge
3 create a landscape plan checklist
5 landscape design options for small lots
9 landscape design options for large lots
11 landscape design cost estimates
13 a guide to vegetation that thrives in Wheat Ridge
16 care and maintenance for your yard
17 gardening resources

iv
roots run deep in
WHEAT RIDGE
an overview
The area that was to become the City of Wheat Ridge began as farmland in Jefferson County. As the
agriculture economy waned, farm lands were subdivided into residential lots to accommodate growth
from the Denver metropolitan area. Wheat Ridge and neighboring Lakewood were incorporated as
cities in 1969. The city is now considered a “built out” community with little vacant land.

the shape of Wheat Ridge

Wheat Ridge neighborhoods are comprised of two types of land and street patterns: small and large lots.

Small Lots. A system of rectangular city blocks that provide pedestrian friendly sidewalks alongside
streets can be found east of Wadsworth Boulevard. Landscapes on these streets have large front and
rear yards on lots ranging in size from 7,000 to 10,000 square feet. Many do not have an irrigation
system or are irrigated by well water. They have retained their original landscape design which is
predominately turf that is water intensive to maintain.

Large Lots. A suburban system of winding streets and cul du sacs which developed in the 1960s - 1980s
is located west of Wadsworth. Homes in these neighborhoods have very large lots, often a quarter acre
or more which may be challenging to maintain and water.

SMALL LOT PARCELS ON A RECTANGULAR LARGE LOT PARCELS ON A

GRID STREET SYSTEM CIRVALINEAR STREET SYSTEM

1
climate and landscape in
WHEAT RIDGE
Landscapes do best when plants and trees are selected that are suited to the local climate, soils, and
levels of natural precipitation.

Wheat Ridge has a dry and semi-arid climate located in

climate zone 4 Source: US Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Climate and soils form the foundation for understanding the conditions related to a successful home
landscape. Wheat Ridge also has seasonal and variable winds that create conditions which contribute
to moisture evaporation from lawns and landscaping. Due to these conditions, irrigation is needed for
most landscapes. Plants and trees should be selected that will thrive in our climate zone. These types of
plants and trees are typically referred to as xeric landscaping. The term xeric refers to plants which thrive
with limited rainfall and in hot and dry conditions.

the majority of soils in Wheat Ridge are clay loam with

some areas of sandy loam
In general, clay loam soil retains water, is coarse to work with and does not drain well. Sandy loam
soils drain well and generally have good mineral content making the soil more conducive to a healthy
landscape. For best planting results, have your soil tested to determine which plants will thrive in your
yard. Most local garden centers have kits you can purchase to test soils. Additionally, based on soil test
results, additives may be needed to improve the condition of your soil.

precipitation averages in Wheat Ridge

As indicated in the chart below, the average precipitation in Wheat Ridge is minimal. Plants and trees in
Wheat Ridge will require additional watering beyond natural precipitation levels. Xeric plants will require
less water and should be selected to encourage success in this climate.

PRECIPITATION AVERAGES IN WHEAT RIDGE

10
in inches

8
in Inches

6
Precipitation

4
Precipitation

2.25 2.6
1.83 2.05 1.78 1.87
2 1.16 1.32 1.18 0.86
0.63 0.64
0
Jan Feb March April May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
Month
M o n th
Source: www.weather.com
2
create your plan...
ONE STEP AT A TIME
Develop a plan before lifting a shovel! Too often plants are purchased at a nursery and planted without the thought of how they
will grow in local environments and how big the mature plant will become. Beautiful gardens and yards begin with the home
owner or a landscape professional creating a working plan similar to the step-by-step process outlined below.

STEP 1. STEP 2.
CREATE A BASE MAP ANALYZE THE SITE
c Use a property survey or create your own map of the c Determine the direction of water flow, roof eaves,
yard drawn to scale. Include property lines, house downspouts and any drainage issues.
outline, driveway, sidewalks, patios and existing
c Determine the sun/shade patterns and prevailing wind
vegetation.
directions (if any) in the yard.
c Measure and draw the location of doors, windows,
c Identify wet and dry areas and consider conducting a
water spigots and the roof overhang.
soils test.
c Measure and draw the location of fences, walls,
c Understand the yard topology. Note slope orientation,
telephone poles and other structures.
steep areas, natural features (creeks, ponds, wetlands,
c Call your local utility company before you dig so that rock outcrops), etc.
location of gas, electric, cable and other utilities lines
c Measure and draw existing trees, shrubs, lawn, and
may be identified and avoided. Simply dial 811 and ask
flower beds. Note their current condition.
for assistance. This is a free service!
c Note any views that should be preserved.

3
STEP 3. STEP 5.
CREATE A CONCEPTUAL DESIGN IMPLEMENT THE DESIGN
c Decide what the views of the yard should look like from c Use stakes to mark where planting beds and other
indoors to the outside. landscape features will be located.
c Figure out where you would like to place areas for c Avoid driving, excavating, tilling or aerating around the
activities such as patios/private seating areas, children’s base of mature trees and utility lines.
play equipment, walking paths, dog runs, etc..
c Clear out unwanted grass and weeds by rototilling,
c Determine maintenance requirements - do you enjoy using a vegetation killer, and/or covering beds with
gardening, or is a low-maintenance plan preferable? thick newspaper (no more than 5 sheets).
c Decide which existing trees and shrubs should remain. c Incorporate nutrients into existing soil if a soils test
confirms that they are needed. Additional soil added
c Create a planting scheme that includes location, size,
to excavated areas should be slightly higher than the
type of plans and planting beds based on color, texture,
adjacent grade to allow for settling.
seasonal interest, and soil compatibility.
c Consider hiring a landscaping contractor to install
the landscaping design and irrigation system. If
complicated elements like retaining walls are involved,
check with the City of Wheat Ridge to see if building
permits are required, refer to page iii for contact info.

STEP 6.
MAINTAIN YOUR NEW YARD
c Water your plants accordingly. It is typically better to
water deeply and less often as opposed to watering
a little bit each day. Keep in mind that newly planted
vegetation requires extra water in the first 2-3 years.
c Remove weeds on a regular basis.
c Divide and replant perennials every few years during
the spring months when the foliage is beginning to
emerge.
c Feel free to leave some plants untrimmed until spring in
order to create winter interest.
c Cut back perennial foliage in the late fall months after
frost has triggered dormancy.

STEP 4. c Add mulch to your garden in the spring and/or fall to

retain soil moisture in the summer and winter months.
FINALIZE THE PLAN
c Consult with a nursery or landscape architect to create
a plant list and estimate the cost of materials.
c Ensure that the final landscape plan shows existing
utility locations and that proposed trees are set back at
least 10 feet from utility lines.

4
design options for small lots
FRONT YARD CONCEPT
existing lot
description:
The selected small lot is located
along a grid street system. It is
rectangular in shape and has
a sidewalk along the front of
the house and a driveway that
connects from the street to the
garage behind the house. Overall,
the yard has limited vegetation.
The majority of the lot has good
sun exposure with only a few
deeply shaded areas on the north
side of the lot.

front yard landscape concept:

This concept provides numerous ideas for improving the curb appeal of the small lot. A beautiful lot can still be achieved if only a
few options are incorporated into the yard design. Examples of design features are detailed to the right.

5
options from the small lot front yard concept:

FLOWER BEDS TO FRAME LAWN RED SANDSTONE WALK WITH GROUND COVER

BLOSSOMING SHADE TREE

TALL, ORNAMENTAL GRASSES WITH ROCKS

6
design options for small lots
FRONT AND BACK YARD

7
options for the small lot full yard concept:

PATIO WITH PERGOLA XERIC PLANTINGS

VEGETABLE GARDEN/BEDS

BIRD AND BUTTERFLY SHRUB BED

8
design options for large lots
FRONT AND BACK YARD
existing lot
description:
The selected large lot on the City’s
west side contains mature conifer-
ous and deciduous trees in the
front and back yard. There is a large
amount of open lawn and planting
beds with shrubs, herbs and flow-
ers. An irrigation ditch runs behind
the home which supplies water to
the site. The site also has existing
bee hives in the back yard that are
maintained by the current owner
of the property.

options for the full yard concept:

GRAPE ARBOR VEGGIE GARDEN SECLUDED PATIO ORNAMENTAL GRASS

9
new design lot description:
A bright colorful curb appeal is also a focus in this design. The front yard has a variety of plants heights and textures in a grid
pattern creating interest to the front yard. The majority of the lawn is replaced by a more water conscious type of turf. A stone
pathway circulates users through the yard. A large patio is placed in the backyard, in addition to the existing one, and a gazebo is
placed in the backyard as a visual and physical destination in the yard. A vegetable garden and fruit trees are located in the back
southeast end of the site.

10
example of landscape design
COST ESTIMATES
estimate details:
The following cost estimate is
broken into three levels or phases.
Many homeowners may wish to
phase in landscape improvements
as their budget permits.

Level One
Details the curb appeal design, a
minimalist approach or first step
towards improving your yard. This
phase focuses on the front yard right
along the street.

Level Two
Includes the rest of the front yard
and assumes that the first level of
the design has been completed.
Level one and level two now create
a complete front yard.

Level Three
Contains the entire back yard.
The cost estimate charts on the
following pages, begin at level one
and lists the landscape preparations,
hardscapes, and vegetation. Level
two and three follow the same
format. After level three, a grand
total is given which includes
the entire front and back yard
landscape.

11
TYPICAL LANDSCAPING COST ESTIMATES, 2010
LEVEL ONE: CURB APPEAL

The following cost estimates for yard design were completed by professional landscape architects. Readers are cautioned that the
design is complex. If costs appear excessive upon first glance please remember that you can save money by buying plants on sale,
doing the work in phases as your budget permits, and installing plant material yourself.

A v e ra g e
L a n d s c a p in g Ite m Q u a n tity U n it S iz e C o st S u b to ta l

Removal of existing vegetation and landscaping 2 HR $15.00 $30

Landform grading 2 HR $15.00 $30
Deciduous shrub 14 EACH no. 5 container $25.00 $350
Evergreen shrub 6 EACH no. 5 container $35.00 $210
Ground Covers/Perennials/Ornamental grasses 133 EACH 4" pots $6.00 $798

Lawn/fesque/bluegrass blend sod 0 SQ FT $1.00 $0

Low water native grass mix seeding 84 SQ FT $0.35 $29

Soil Preparation - Amendments and fertilizer 384 SQ FT $0.50 $192

Steel/Plastic Edger 12 LIN FT $3.00 $36

Irrigation System 384 SQ. FT. $2.00 $768

T o ta l C u rb A p p e a l $ 2 ,4 4 3

*Note: INSTALLATION NOT INCLUDED. These estimates are based on the typical cost for plants and materials and may vary due to
species of plant, quantity, size of purchased plant(s) or availability. Prices can vary from retailer to retailer.
**Note: HR is Hours for Contracted Labor, CU YD is Cubic Unit per Yard, SQ FT is Square Feet, LIN FT is Linear Feet.

12
TYPICAL LANDSCAPING COST ESTIMATES, 2010
LEVEL TWO: FRONT YARD

A v e ra g e
L a n d s c a p in g Ite m Q u a n tity U n it S iz e C o st S u b to ta l

Removal of existing vegetation and landscaping 8 HR $15.00 $120

Landform grading 8 HR $15.00 $120
Large Deciduous Tree (Honeylocust) 1 EACH 1.5"-2"caliper $300.00 $300
Deciduous shrub 13 EACH no. 5 container $25.00 $325
Evergreen shrub 5 EACH no. 5 container $35.00 $175
Broadleaf evergreen shrub 11 EACH no. 5 container $45.00 $495

Ground Covers /Perennial/Ornamental grasses 220 EACH no. 1 container $8.00 $1,760
Ground Covers /Perennials/Ornamental grasses 167 EACH 4" pots $6.00 $1,002

Lawn/fesque/bluegrass blend sod 135 SQ FT $1.00 $135

Low water native grass mix seeding 1,350 SQ FT $0.35 $473

Wood Mulch (shredded) 4" depth 1,450 SQ FT $0.80 $1,160

Soil Preparation - Amendments and fertilizer 2,553 SQ FT $0.50 $1,277
Steel/Plastic Edger 113 LIN FT $3.00 $339
Paving Stones 11 EACH $5 - $10.00 $110

Irrigation System 2,553 SQ. FT. $2.00 $5,106

F u ll F ro n t Y a rd (L e v e l O n e + L e v e l T w o ) $ 1 2 ,8 9 7

*Note: INSTALLATION NOT INCLUDED. These estimates are based on the typical cost for plants and materials and may vary due to
species of plant, quantity, size of purchased plant(s) or availability. Prices can vary from retailer to retailer.
**Note: HR is Hours for Contracted Labor, CU YD is Cubic Unit per Yard, SQ FT is Square Feet, LIN FT is Linear Feet.

13
TYPICAL LANDSCAPING COST ESTIMATES, 2010
LEVEL THREE: BACK YARD

A v e ra g e
L a n d s c a p in g Ite m Q u a n tity U n it S iz e C o st S u b to ta l

Removal of existing vegetation and landscaping 39 HR $15.00 $585

Landform grading 39 HR $15.00 $585
Large Deciduous Tree (Honeylocust) 4 EACH 1.5"-2"caliper $300.00 $1,200
Deciduous shrub 21 EACH no. 5 container $25.00 $525
Evergreen shrub 8 EACH no. 5 container $35.00 $280
Broadleaf evergreen shrub 5 EACH no. 5 container $45.00 $225

Ground Covers /Perennials/Ornamental grasses 192 EACH no. 1 container $8.00 $1,536
Ground Covers/Perennials/Ornamental grasses 176 EACH 4" pots $6.00 $1,056

Lawn/fesque/bluegrass blend sod 1,586 SQ FT $1.00 $1,586

Low water native grass mix seeding SQ FT $1.00 $0

Wood Mulch (shredded) 4" depth 991 SQ FT $0.80 $793

Soil Preparation - Amendments and fertilizer 3,768 SQ FT $0.50 $1,884
Steel/Plastic Edger 115 LIN FT $3.00 $345
Concrete (4" depth) 197 SQ FT $2.50 $493
Paving Stones 26 EACH $5 - $10.00 $260

Irrigation System 3,768 SQ. FT. $2.00 $7,536

T o ta l B a c k Y a rd $ 1 8 ,8 8 9
T o ta l L o t (F u ll F ro n t y a rd + B a c k Y a rd ) $ 3 1 ,7 8 6
Design Fee: 10% $3,179
Contingency fee: 15% $4,768
G RA ND TO TA L $ 3 9 ,7 3 3
Total Cost Per Square Foot = $5.93

*Note: INSTALLATION NOT INCLUDED. These estimates are based on the typical cost for plants and materials and may vary due to
species of plant, quantity, size of purchased plant(s) or availability. Prices can vary from retailer to retailer.
**Note: HR is Hours for Contracted Labor, CU YD is Cubic Unit per Yard, SQ FT is Square Feet, LIN FT is Linear Feet.

14
choose the right vegetation
FOR YOUR YARD
The soil composition, drainage of the site and exposure to the elements such as sun and wind, should
be considered before planting begins. The following list of plants was taken from the Colorado State
University Xeriscape Plant lists.

Try to avoid 100% bluegrass if you are installing a new lawn. Bluegrass is a cool weather grass and needs
extensive watering in our hot and dry climate. A better option is a fescue/bluegrass seed mix. Lawn and
garden centers will be able to assist you in choosing alternative types of grasses for your lawn.

large deciduous trees

C o m m o n N am e B o ta n ic a l N a m e H e ig h t S p re a d C h a ra c te ris tic s W a te r U s e
Red Sunset Maple Acer rubrum Red Sunset 50' 40' Red fall color Medium
Western Catalpa Catalpa speciosa 40-50' 20-30' White flowers/seed pods Low
Hackberry Celtis occidentalis 50-60' 30-40' Cork-like bark Low
Honeylocust Gleditsia triacanthos inermis 30-50' 25-35' Small leaves/dappled light Medium
Featured Deciduous Tree: Kentucky Coffeetree Gymnocladus dioicus 60' 50' Slow growing/seed pods Low
Red Sunset Maple
Bur Oak Quercus macrocarpa 70' 50' Slow growing/long lived Low

small deciduous trees

C o m m o n N am e B o ta n ic a l N a m e H e ig h t S p re a d C h a ra c te ris tic s W a te r U s e
Serviceberry Amelanchier canadensis 15-25' 15-20' White flowers in Low
spring/nice fall color
Thornless Cockspur Crataegus crus-galli inermis 15-25' 15-20' Horizontal branches / dark Low
Hawthorn red fruit
Spring Snow Malus x 'Spring Snow' 20' 15' White flowers / no fruit Medium
Crabapple
Featured Coniferous Tree:
Spring Snow Crabapple Chanticleer Pear Pyrus calleryana 35' 15' Upright, pyramidal form, Medium
nice fall color

15
 coniferous trees
C o m m o n N am e B o ta n ic a l N a m e H e ig h t S p re a d C h a ra c te ris tic s W a te r U s e
Rocky Mtn. Juniper Juniperus scopulorum 20-30' 8-10' Drought tolerant Low
Colorado Spruce Picea pungens 40-60' 20-30' Green to silvery blue color Medium
Pinon Pine Pinus edulis 20-30' 15' Rounded form Low
Pondersosa Pine Pinus pondersosa 60-80' 30-40' Open, spreading branches Low

Featured Coniferous Tree:

Ponderosa Pine (mature)

shrubs (full sun)

C o m m o n N am e B o ta n ic a l N a m e H e ig h t S p re a d C h a ra c te ris tic s W a te r u s e
Leadplant Amorpha canescens 2-3' 3-4' Late violet flowers, very Low
drought tolerate
Red Barberry Berberis thunbergii 4' 5' Deep red foliage, specimen Medium
'Atropurpurea' or hedge
Peashrub Caragana spp. 3-12' 4-8' Yellow flowers in late Low
Featured Shrub: spring
Shrub Rose Mountain Mahogany Cercocarpus montanus 6-8' 4-6' Grayish - green Low
foliage/twisted seed tails
Rabbitbrush Chrysothamnus nauseosus 2-6' 2-6' Flat clusters of yellow Low
flowers in late summer
Cotoneaster Cotoneaster spp. 2-6' 3-8' Small, leaves on spreading Medium
branches
Juniper Juniperus spp. 6"-8' 3'-10' Evergreen shrub Low

Yellow Flowering Ribes aureum 4-6' 4-6' Yellow, clove scented Low
Currant flowers in late spring
Shrub Rose Rosa spp. 2-5' 3-5' Summer flowering/rose Low
hips in fall
Spirea Spiraea spp. 1-6' 2-6' Narrow leaves, spring and Medium
summer flowering

shrubs (partial to full shade)

C o m m o n N am e B o ta n ic a l N a m e H e ig h t S p re a d C h a ra c te ris tic s W a te r u s e
Carol Mackie Daphne Daphne x burkwoodi 'Carol 3-5' 3-5' Fragrant flowers late spring Medium
Mackie'
Manhattan Euonymus Euonymus kiautschovica 4-6' 6-8' Broadleaf evergreen, needs Medium
'Manhattan' some protection
Oregon Grape Holly Mahonia aquifolium 4-6' 4-6' Broadleaf evergreen, Low
Featured Shrub: yellow flowers, blue fruit
Oregon Grape Holly Snowberry Symphoricarpos alba 3-5' 3-5' White flowers with white, Low
oval berries into winter

16
 ornamental grasses
C o m m o n N am e B o ta n ic a l N a m e H e ig h t C h a ra c te ris tic s W a te r u s e
Big bluestem Andropogon gerardii 3-6' Blue-green foliage, fall Low
color and fl owers
Side-oats grama Bouteloua curtipendula 1-2.5' Likes sandy soil, native Low
prairie grass
Blue fescue Festuca cinerea .5-1.5' Blue-green clumps, likes Low
sandy soil
Featured Ornamental Grass:
Tufted hair grass Blue oat grass Helictotrichon sempervirens 2.5' Blue pointed leaves Low

Feather Reed Grass Calamagrostis x acutiflora 2-3' Stiff foliage, yellow and Moderate
orange fall color
Tufted hair grass Deschampsia cespitosa 3-4' Dark green, dense foliage, Moderate
colorful changing flowers
Maiden or sliver grass Miscanthus sinensis 5-6' Whisk-like flowers; variance Medium
in leaf color, size and
Switch grass Panicum virgatum 4-5' tPinkt flowers, fall red or Low
silver flowers, yellow fall
Little Bluestem Schizachyrium scoparium 3-4' fBlue-gray
li lfoliage turns Low
copper red in autumn

perennial plants for sunny areas

C o m m o n N am e B o ta n ic a l N a m e H e ig h t C h a ra c te ris tic s W a te r u s e
Yarrow Yellow, Achillea spp. 1-3' Yellow, white, pink, adapts Low
to poor soils
Butterfly weed Asclepias tuberose 1-1.5' Orange, adapts to poor soils Low
Aster (New England) Aster novae-angliae 3-5' Purple, white Medium
Cornflower Blue Centaurea cyanus 2' White Medium
Featured Perennial: Coreopsis Coreopsis lanceolata 3' Yellow Medium
Iceland Poppy
Painted daisy Dendranthema coccineum 2-3' White, pink, large showy Medium
flowers
Purple coneflower Echinacea purpurea 2-3' Purple Medium
Gaillardia, blanket Gaillardia aristata 2' Red, orange, very good for Low
flower xeriscape landscapes
Daylily Hermerocallis spp 2-2.5' Yellow, red, orange Medium
Bearded iris Iris hybrids .5-3' Easy to grow Medium
Lavender Lavandula angustifolia 1' Shrub-like, fragrant Low
Gayfeather Liatris scariosa 1-2' Low
Blue flax Linum perenne 1.5' Blue Medium
Peony Paeonia hybrids 2-2.5' White, pink, red, tolerates Medium
some shade
Iceland poppy Papaver nudicaule 1' Orange, red, white, pink, Medium
good edging plant
Penstemon Penstemon spp. 2-3' Red, white, blue Low
Black-eyed Susan Rudbeckia hirta 2-3 Yellow, needs space Medium
Sedum, stonecrop Sedum spp. .5-1' Many colors Low
Paperflower Zinnia grandiflora .5' Yellow Low

17
 perennial plants for shady areas
C o m m o n N am e B o ta n ic a l N a m e H e ig h t C h a ra c te ris tic s W a te r u s e
Monkshood Purple Acontium naplellus 3-4' Likes dense shade Medium

Columbine Aquilegia spp. 1-2' White, blue, pink, yellow, Medium

use with shrubs
Canterbury bells Campanula medium 3' Pink, purple, white Medium
Featured Perennial:
Columbine
Harebell Campanula spp. 1' Blue, white, a nice edge Medium
plant
Bleeding heart Dicentra spectabilis 1.5' Deep pink, plant on north Medium
sides
Primrose Yellow, Primula spp. .5' Yellow, red, blue Medium

Horned violet Viola cornuta, viola .5' Many colors, likes shade Medium
and/or sun

ground cover for sunny areas

C o m m o n N am e B o ta n ic a l N a m e H e ig h t C h a ra c te ris tic s W a te r u s e
Greek yarrow Achillea ageratifolia 2-3" Green foliage Low

Mountain alyssum Alyssum montanum 4-12" Gray-green foliage, yellow Low

flowers
Snow-in-summer Cerastium tomentosum 6" Grey foliage, white flowers, Low
Featured Ground Cover: aggressive
Purple Ice Plant
Purple ice plant Delosperma cooperi 2-4" Purple flowers, red foliage Low
in winter
Creeping juniper Juniperus horizontalis 4-10" Good year around coverage Low

Rock soapwart Saponaria ocymoides 6-12" Pink flowers Low

Turkish Veronica Veronican liwnaensis 1-3" deep blue flowers May- Low
June

ground cover for shady areas

C o m m o n N am e B o ta n ic a l N a m e H e ig h t C h a ra c te ris tic s W a te r u s e
Kinnikinnick Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 4-6" Evergreen, red edible Low
berries
Hall’s Japanese Lonicera japonica ‘Hallina’ 6'12" Sun or shade Low
honeysuckle
Periwinkle Vinca minor 4-6" Semi-evergreen, white or Medium
Featured Ground Cover: purple flowers
Sweet Woodruff
Sweet Woodruff Galium odoratum 8-10" White fragrant flowers, May- Medium
June
Purple leaf Euonymus fortune 'Coloratus' 12-24" Can tolerate some sun, Medium
Wintercreeper purple leaf in winter

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care and maintenance tips
FOR YOUR YARD
WATER WISE LANDSCAPES, XERISCAPE DESIGN PRINCIPALS AND WATER USE
ADVICE FROM THE DENVER WATER BOARD
The basic idea of xeric design is to create a landscape that conserves water. The following suggestions
are from the City of Denver Water Board.
1. Planning and Design. Group plants together that require the same amount of water and set up
zones that require frequent watering, occasional watering and no watering at all.
2. Soil Preparation. Be sure to properly turn, aerate and enrich the soil according to plant
specifications. Many plants, especially non-native plants, require a more enriched soil in order to
grow and become healthy.
3. Plant Selection. The plants that are selected for your design are very important in creating a low-
maintenance, low-water landscape. Plants should be selected after completing a site analysis. The
plants should be located in the proper zone in your yard. For example: If a plant requires a vast
amount of sun and very little water, the plant should most likely be located on the west or south
side of the lot with no shaded interference.
4. Creating Practical Turf Areas. Limit turf areas and avoid using turf as “fill in” for ground cover. Think
critically about where you are placing turf; be sure to not place in areas that will not be used like
steep topography or isolated strips that are not easily accessible.
5. Use of Mulches. Mulches can be used as a moisture retention tool. Mulches can also aid in the
reduction of weed growth and also provide critical nutrients as the mulch decays. This material
is used around plants, ground cover and trees. The mulch can also be applied to areas that are
not appropriate for planting vegetation. Mulch mainly consists of bark, wood chips, landscape
clippings, small stone pieces and other vegetation fragments. Put down a weed barrier before
laying down the mulch.
6. Efficient Irrigation. The basic idea of creating successful landscape irrigation plan is to plant your
landscape in zones and apply water only when necessary. The understanding of basic zones and the
water requirements for each is the key. The irrigation can be an automatic sprinkler or a drip system.
7. Proper Maintenance. Regular maintenance will increase the health and beauty of your landscape.
Maintenance for a xeriscape landscape should decrease over time after the plants have been
established and become mature.
Seasonal maintenance will reduce the overall demand for your time and will increase the health and
beauty of the landscape. In the winter, prune the deciduous trees and shrubs and if the precipitation
is low, water your plants. In the spring, aerate the lawn and check the sprinkler systems. Pruning can
be done in the spring if needed but refer to an arborist or the Colorado State University Extension for
pruning of specific species (www.ext.colostate.edu/index.html). In the summer, plant annuals, control/
eliminate weeds and pests and trim and remove dead plants and flower heads. In the fall, water new
plants, or under established plants, fertilize, and compost soil.

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WATER WISE LANDSCAPES
IRRIGATION 101 ADVICE FROM THE DENVER WATER BOARD
• Follow a watering pattern; two to three days a week from the beginning of June to the end of
September. The watering time will vary according to the plants water requirements.
• Let the plants develop deep healthy roots and check and see if local rain fall will accommodate the
plants’ needs naturally. Water at a slow rate, so the water is absorbed and does not run off the area
you are saturating.
• Maintain sprinkler systems; check them often. Insure that they are working properly and adjust
them so that they are not wasting water, i.e. causing water to flow onto the sidewalk or street. Make
sure that water is not running down landscapes and that they are not leaking and creating a puddle
below the sprinkler head. Check periodically to make sure vegetation is not blocking the irrigation
spray this can result in dry or dead spots.
• Water in the mornings before 10 AM and evenings after 6 PM, to avoid the hottest part of the day.
Watering in the early part of the day and the evening will result in less evaporation and more water
delivered to your plants.
• Set sprinklers at low angles and set the pressure of the system to reduce misting and fogging. The
mist and fog will increase evaporation.
• Do not buy sprinklers that oscillate. These are usually attached to a hose and are very wasteful.
• When retrofitting an existing irrigation system to meet the demands of your new landscape make
sure to consult an irrigation expert, supply store, or refer to the American Society of Agricultural
Engineers’ or the Irrigation Association (www.irrigation.org) recommendations and specifications for
proper and efficient irrigations systems.
• Refer to your water bill for contact information regarding water district regulations.

LAWN CARE
HOW HIGH TO MOW YOUR GRASS, FROM THE EXPERTS AT SIMPLICITY®
Often cutting height is a matter of personal preference. Typically, you should mow the grass when it
is between three and five inches high. The proper cutting height range for a specific lawn will depend
upon several factors, including the type of grass, the amount of rainfall, the prevailing temperature,
and the lawn’s overall condition. Cutting the grass too short causes weak, thin grass plants, which are
easily damaged by dry periods and pests. Cutting too short is often more damaging than allowing the
grass to be slightly higher. Letting grass grow a bit longer–especially when it is hot and dry–reduces
heat build-up, preserves needed moisture and protects the grass from heat damage and other
problems.
Cutting off too much at one time shocks the plant’s growth system and weakens the grass plants. A
good rule of thumb is the 1/3 rule: to cut no more than one third of the grass height, and never more
than 1 inch at a time. The amount of grass you are able to cut in one mowing pass is also effected by
the type of mowing system you are using (for example, broadcasting with side discharge decks can
process a much larger volume of grass than mulching does).
For extremely tall grass, set the cutting height at maximum for the first pass, and then reset it to the
desired height and mow a second or third time. Don’t cover the grass surface with a heavy layer of
clippings. Consider using a grass collection system and starting a compost pile.

1/3” vs. 1” Rule Diagram Grass Cutting Diagram

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TREE CARE
PURCHASE ADVICE AND FACTS
advice when purchasing trees
Trees can add value to your home by complementing and beautifying the house and yard, helping to
cool your home and neighborhood, breaking the cold winds, and providing food for wildlife.
Before buying a tree, get advice from an arborist or nursery. An arborist specializes in tree care. He or
she can give you sound advice and can provide the services your trees may need. When choosing an
arborist, the City of Wheat Ridge requires that only a licensed tree care company be used for tree care.
The Parks and Recreation Department maintains a list of the licensed vendors. The website is www.
ci.wheatridge.co.us under Parks and Recreation.
Look for International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certification for proof of insurance. Be wary of
individuals who go door-to-door offering bargains for doing tree work.

tree care facts

1. Taproots which are roots that grow vertically down are very uncommon in mature trees. If
taproots do develop, they usually will be forced into horizontal growth when they encounter hard
subsoil. The entire root system of most trees can be found within the first three feet of soil. The
spread of the root system however, can be very extensive, often extending 2-3 times beyond the
spread of the tree’s crown.
2. In most soils, the vast majority of trees have fibrous, absorbing roots which are in the top 8
inches of soil. Roots grow where water and oxygen are available. When fertilizer is placed 12” - 18”
deep into the soil, it is too deep.
3. Tree wounds. Trees compartmentalize their wounds, generating wound-wood over the damaged
area. Flush cutting removes the “branch collar,” creating a larger wound than if the branch were
removed outside the collar (see graphic below). Also, it is likely that some of the parent branch
tissue will be removed. The spread of decay inside the tree is greater with flush cuts.
4. Research has shown wound dressings should not be used on trees. They do not inhibit decay,
do not prevent insect entry, and do not bring about faster wound closure, and may actually slow the
healing process.
5. The tree’s crown should never be cropped or cut off. Chances are it is the wrong tree in the
wrong place. Trees can be thinned, or removed and replaced with a more suitable species.

pruning a large limb

1. Undercut 12-24” up from 2. Make the 2nd cut from 3. Final cut should be just beyond
the branch collar to keep the top way through the the branch collar. Support the
the bark from tearing. branch, 2-3” above 1st cut. stub to avoid tearing the bark.

2. Second cut

1. Undercut

Branch
Collar 3. Final cut

Illustration Copyright © Robert O’Brien

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need more ideas? check out these
GREEN GARDENING RESOURCES
Wheat Ridge public xeriscape gardens
• Richards-Hart Estate, demonstration garden of a variety of perennials and the grounds contain
many unusual trees, 5349 27th Avenue, Wheat Ridge.
• Wheat Ridge Recreation Center, perennial plantings, 4005 Kipling, Wheat Ridge.
• Wheat Ridge Municipal Building, 7500 W. 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge.
• Crown Hill Cemetery – Arboretum, 32nd Avenue on the south side of Crown Hill Cemetery, Wheat
Ridge. 303-233-4611

Denver metro public xeriscape gardens

• Denver Botanic Gardens, 100 York Street, Denver, 303- 331-4000
• Denver Water Department Offices, 1600 West 12th Avenue, Denver, 303-628-6348
• Fair View Cemetery – Arboretum, guide tours, 1000 S. 26th Street, Colorado Springs. 719- 578-6638
• Hudson Gardens, 6115 S. Santa Fe Drive, Littleton. 303-797-8565

regional public xeriscape gardens

• Center for Water Resource Conservation, 2665 63rd Street, Boulder. 303-419-5418 or 1501 N. College
Avenue, Fort Collins. 970-498-9663
• Colorado Spring Utilities, 2285 Mesa Road, Colorado Springs. 719-448-4555
• Colorado State University, Fort Collins – Water retention and xeric gardens on campus
• Fort Collins City Hall, 300 Laporte Avenue, Fort Collins, 970-221-6877
• Longmont Sunset Park, Long’s Peak and Sunset, Longmont, 303-797-8565
• Loveland Civic Center, First Street and Washington Avenue, Loveland, 970-962-3566
• Betty Ford Alpine Park, 183 Gore Creek Drive, Vail, 970.476.0103

DENVER BOTANICAL GARDENS

BETTY FORD ALPINE PARK XERISCAPE GARDEN

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