Owner
Paul
City
Parker
Skill Set
Intermediate
Project Size
250 - 500 sq ft
Project Location
Front yard
Sun Exposure
Full sun
Year Completed
2024
Time Commitment
11 - 20 hours of labor
Project Cost
less than $500
Other Project Elements
Native or drought-tolerant plants
Resource Central Programs
Advice from the Owner
Using the mulch board over the lawn for several weeks was a great way to kill the lawn and preserve the soil. Added a thin layer of dirt and mulch on top to keep the yard aesthetic in the weeks leading up to planting. Love how the yard has transformed from a mundane grass field to a lively garden.
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Owner
Craig
City
Parker
Skill Set
Expert
Project Size
750 - 1,000 sq ft
Project Location
Front yard
Sun Exposure
Full sun
Year Completed
2010
Time Commitment
less than 10 hours of labor
Project Cost
less than $500
Other Project Elements
Native or drought-tolerant plants, Shrubs, Patio/sitting areas, Low water/xeric plants
Resource Central Programs
None
Advice from the Owner
My yard requires a low level of maintenance and no irrigation other than a few hand-waterings during the growing season. This area of my backyard xeriscape has different groups of plants that bloom from late March through October. I used a variety of native and near-native (adapted) plantings to make this "wildscape" bird and pollinator-friendly.
My advice would be to stick with plants adapted or native to Colorado. Additionally, group plants by water needs, amend the soil, and avoid the use of high-water turf areas. If you have chosen your plant material for water efficiency, no need for an irrigation system - hand water to establish.
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