JLS Landscape crew performing deep-root watering during Stage 1 drought in Colorado

Stage 1 Drought Declared: What It Means for Your Colorado Landscape

How hand watering, deep-root watering, and drought-resistant plants can protect your property during Colorado's Stage 1 drought declaration.

Located in the High Plains, Colorado is no stranger to drought, but in March? Unfortunately, yes. This year's record-breaking daily high temperatures and the lack of significant winter precipitation have driven Denver Water to declare a Stage 1 drought.

Much of Colorado's water supply depends on mountain snowpack, and heading into spring, the snowpack is at a 40-year low. In response, Denver Water is seeking a 20% reduction in water use effective immediately.

What This Means for Your Landscape

Denver Water states there is no need to turn on irrigation systems until mid to late May, but your trees, shrubs, and newly installed landscapes still need care.

At JLS Landscape & Sprinkler Inc., we offer hand and deep-root watering to support existing landscapes while minimizing water use. Taking these steps now helps protect your plants during a critical growth period.

If you are concerned about the health of your trees and shrubs heading into spring, we recommend scheduling an irrigation audit so your system is ready to run as efficiently as possible when the time comes.

Planting for a Drought-Resistant Landscape

We can all do our part not only by following Denver Water's guidelines but also by being thoughtful about what we plant this year. Colorado offers many native and drought-resistant plants that add beauty to your garden, support pollinators, and promote water conservation.

Spiderwort (Tradescantia x andersoniana) — a drought-resistant native plant for Colorado landscapes
Pictured: Spiderwort (Tradescantia x andersoniana)

JLS Landscape & Sprinkler Inc. can help you build the drought-resistant landscape you've been dreaming of. From planning to installation, we make it easier to adapt to Colorado's dry climate. Our landscape maintenance team works with property owners to select plants that thrive in the Front Range climate while reducing long-term water demand.

Additional Resources

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Certifications & Memberships

Certified Snow Professional LEED Accredited Professional Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado BOMA IFMA Rocky Mountain Snow Contractors Association Colorado Association of Lawn Care Professionals Colorado Department of Agriculture Castle Rock Chamber Castle Pines Chamber Larkspur Chamber

Need Help Protecting Your Landscape During Drought?

JLS Landscape & Sprinkler provides hand watering, deep-root watering, and drought-resistant planting for properties across Denver Metro and Douglas County.