Since we live in a semi-arid region it should not be surprising that droughts periodically hit Colorado. Regardless of whether restrictions are put in place the City Council asks folks to voluntarily cut back on water usage. Nearly 70% of summer household water use goes toward the lawn and garden. Now the drought is even more serious and we all need to shift our expectations.  Grass for instance, can survive even if it’s not lush and green.  A change to grayish-blue color or noticing footprints hours after you’ve walked there are signs that your lawn needs water.  Reducing fertilizer and irrigation actually helps the lawn become more drought-hardy.  When mowing make sure the blade is sharp and avoid cutting shorter than 2 ½ to 3 inches.

 Kentucky bluegrass will go dormant without water.  Water during the spring and keep weeds under control so they don’t steal moisture.  When it greens up, begin withholding water. It will turn brown like wheat at harvest.  Around Labor Day, water the grass and fertilize to prepare for winter.  Buffalo grass and other drought tolerant species can get by with minimal water and still look green.

 Through it all, don’t ignore watering trees.  After all we are a Tree City USA and trees help cool, especially in a drought.  Allow water to soak deeply into the soil around the tree’s drip line.

 On a long-term note, xeriscaping is an excellent option to create an appealing landscape using drought tolerant plants.  For your viewing the City has developed xeriscape areas at 318 Hospital Road, planters between the fire station and the Grocery Kart and at Doty Pond.  Take a look – we’re not just talking about rock and cactus here.