Colorado Springs Landscaping

FAQ

Here are some common landscaping-related questions and answers. Please don't hesitate to contact us with any of your Colorado Springs landscaping questions.

1. What is the benefit of aerating the lawn in the spring and the fall?

Aeration increased the ability of the turf to absorb water and increases air flow to the roots. Also decreases the amount of run off.

2. Why does a sprinkler system need to be “blown out” or winterized?

   In this region, temperatures drop below freezing quite quickly. If a system has not been drained and there is water in the PVC and copper piping, the quick freezes can cause these pipes to freeze and burst. Also, the poly piping in the ground can eventually freeze and crack during the winter if left full of water. These cracks create “line leaks.” These leaks are often difficult to locate and cost much more to repair than simply getting the system winterized.

3. Why fertilize?

   Fertilizer is an application of the nutrients that plants need to fuel their natural processes of growth and reproduction. Fertilizer is applied to overcome deficiencies in specific nutrients (usually nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) and increases growth, flowering, and the vitality of the plants.

   • Spring Start up Fertilizer:

   Is a quick release formula that is very high in nitrogen to help the lawn “wake up” from the winter and green up and start growing quickly.

   • Winterizer- Fertilizer:

   Is high in phosphorous and potassium that strengthens the plants for winter survival. It is a slow release formula that keeps the lawn green longer, and should be applied in early October through mid-November. This is late enough in the season that it will not stimulate a growth flush. Lawns that have gotten winterizer fertilizer recover better in the spring, survive heat/drought better, and contain fewer weeds.

   • “Weed and Feed” Fertilizer:

   Has similar chemical make up as the spring start up fertilizer, being higher in nitrogen to help stimulate growth and green up the grass. The only additional aspect is the weed control and ability to kill broadleaf species and crabgrass.

4. What is Xeriscaping?

   In Colorado’s dry climate, Xeriscaping is a great way to save water, time, and money in your landscaping. The term comes from a combination of the Greek word “Xeros,” meaning dry, and “scape,” as in “landscape.” Xeriscaping is an attractive, sustainable landscape that conserves water and requires minimal maintenance. For more information see the Colorado Springs Utilites website.