Late summer in Colorado can be tough on plants, and watering them the right way makes all the difference. I’ve learned that a few simple habits can keep gardens thriving even in the heat.
Things like timing, technique, and consistency really pay off this time of year. It’s amazing how small changes can prevent stress and boost growth.
Let’s keep those plants happy and healthy as the season winds down!
1. Drip Irrigation Systems
Water goes exactly where needed with these efficient systems. Colorado gardeners love them because they reduce evaporation and deliver moisture directly to plant roots.
Setting up is easier than you think and saves up to 50% more water than sprinklers. Many Colorado garden centers offer starter kits perfect for beginners.
2. Morning Watering Schedule
Rise with the sun to give plants their drink! Early morning watering allows moisture to soak in before Colorado’s midday heat causes rapid evaporation.
Plants have time to dry their leaves before evening, reducing fungal problems common in Colorado gardens. Even 15 minutes earlier makes a huge difference during August heat waves.
3. Deep Root Watering
Getting water down deep encourages stronger root systems. Many Colorado plants develop impressive drought tolerance when trained to seek water below the surface.
Use a watering wand or root irrigator that delivers moisture 6-8 inches deep. The Rocky Mountain climate demands plants with robust root systems that can withstand dry spells.
4. Mulch Application
Layer 2-3 inches of organic mulch around plants to lock in precious moisture. Colorado’s dry air quickly pulls water from soil, but mulch creates a protective barrier against evaporation.
Wood chips, straw or compost work wonderfully in our state’s challenging conditions. An added bonus: mulch gradually breaks down to feed your soil with nutrients plants crave.
5. Rain Barrel Collection
Harvest free water from the sky during Colorado’s brief summer thunderstorms! A simple rain barrel system captures runoff from your roof for later use.
Front Range homeowners can collect up to two 55-gallon barrels legally. The stored rainwater has perfect pH for plants and contains no chlorine like municipal water supplies do.
6. Self-Watering Containers
Container gardens dry out fast in Colorado’s arid climate. Self-watering pots feature reservoirs that supply consistent moisture without daily attention.
Fill the reservoir once or twice weekly instead of daily watering. Perfect for busy gardeners or when weekend trips to the mountains take you away from your Colorado garden duties.
7. Wicking Bed Systems
Underground moisture delivery is revolutionizing Colorado gardening! Wicking beds use capillary action to pull water up from a reservoir beneath the soil.
Plants access exactly what they need while minimizing waste. Many Colorado community gardens are adopting this technique because it cuts water usage by 50-70% during our driest months.
8. Ollas Clay Pot Irrigation
Ancient technology meets modern Colorado gardening with these unglazed clay pots. Buried near plants with only the neck exposed, ollas slowly release water through their porous walls.
The gradual seepage creates perfect soil moisture without runoff. Colorado’s indigenous peoples used similar methods centuries ago—proving sometimes the old ways work best in our challenging climate.