With Colorado’s semi-arid climate, fluctuating temperatures, and water restrictions, businesses and property managers must take a strategic approach to landscaping. A well-planned, sustainable landscape reduces water usage, lowers maintenance costs, and enhances the natural beauty of commercial properties.
One of the best ways to achieve sustainable, low-maintenance landscaping is by incorporating native and drought-tolerant plants. These species thrive in Colorado’s environment, requiring less water and upkeep while still providing color, texture, and seasonal interest.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
✅ The benefits of using native and drought-resistant plants
✅ The best plant choices for commercial landscapes in Colorado
✅ How to create a sustainable, water-efficient landscape
✅ Practical maintenance tips for long-term success
1. Why Choose Native & Drought-Tolerant Plants?
Switching to water-wise plants is one of the smartest investments for commercial landscapes in Colorado. Here’s why:
1.1 Reduced Water Consumption
❄️ Colorado receives limited annual rainfall, and commercial properties often struggle with high water bills due to irrigation demands. Drought-tolerant plants:
✔ Require less frequent watering
✔ Adapt to natural rainfall cycles
✔ Thrive with efficient irrigation systems
1.2 Lower Maintenance & Landscaping Costs
Native plants naturally adapt to Colorado’s soil and climate, meaning:
✔ Less pruning, trimming, and fertilizing
✔ Fewer pest and disease problems
✔ No need for chemical treatments
1.3 Environmental Benefits
Using native plants supports Colorado’s ecosystem by:
✔ Providing food and habitat for pollinators & wildlife
✔ Preventing soil erosion & runoff pollution
✔ Promoting biodiversity & natural resilience
1.4 Year-Round Beauty & Resilience
Many drought-tolerant plants offer seasonal color, texture, and variety while withstanding harsh winters, intense sun, and dry spells.
2. Best Native & Drought-Tolerant Plants for Colorado
When selecting plants for commercial properties, consider variety, durability, and visual appeal. Here are some top choices:
2.1 Drought-Tolerant Trees ????
Plains Cottonwood (Populus deltoides) – A fast-growing, hardy tree that thrives in open spaces.
Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) – Resilient to heat, drought, and poor soil conditions.
Honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos var. inermis) – Offers light shade and vibrant yellow fall color.
2.2 Low-Water Shrubs ????
Apache Plume (Fallugia paradoxa) – A flowering shrub with white blooms and fluffy seed heads.
Rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa) – Golden-yellow fall flowers with minimal water needs.
Fernbush (Chamaebatiaria millefolium) – Fragrant, evergreen foliage with white summer flowers.
2.3 Drought-Resistant Perennials ????
Rocky Mountain Penstemon (Penstemon strictus) – Vibrant blue-purple flowers that attract pollinators.
Blanket Flower (Gaillardia aristata) – A long-blooming, colorful perennial that withstands dry conditions.
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) – Tall, airy lavender spikes that add height and movement.
2.4 Ornamental Grasses ????
Blue Grama Grass (Bouteloua gracilis) – A native prairie grass with attractive seed heads.
Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium) – Copper-orange fall color and low maintenance.
Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) – A tall, drought-tolerant grass that adds texture.
2.5 Ground Covers & Succulents ????
Sedum (Sedum spp.) – Thrives in rock gardens and withstands extreme conditions.
Ice Plant (Delosperma spp.) – Bright, daisy-like flowers that bloom in dry soils.
Creeping Mahonia (Mahonia repens) – Evergreen ground cover with blue berries for wildlife.
3. Creating a Sustainable, Water-Wise Landscape
Incorporating native and drought-tolerant plants is only part of the equation. A well-designed landscape also includes:
3.1 Smart Irrigation & Water Management ????
Traditional irrigation methods waste water and increase costs. Instead, businesses should implement:
✔ Drip irrigation systems – Deliver water directly to plant roots
✔ Smart irrigation controllers – Adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions
✔ Rain sensors & soil moisture meters – Prevent overwatering and reduce waste
3.2 Mulching for Moisture Retention ????
Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use:
✔ Organic mulches (wood chips, bark, straw) for water retention
✔ Inorganic mulches (gravel, crushed rock) for low-maintenance areas
3.3 Hardscaping for Functionality & Efficiency ????
Reducing lawn space and incorporating hardscape elements can conserve water and add structure. Consider:
✔ Permeable pavers – Allow water infiltration & reduce runoff
✔ Decorative rock gardens – Mimic natural Colorado landscapes
✔ Rain gardens & bioswales – Capture and filter stormwater
3.4 Grouping Plants by Water Needs ????
Known as hydrozoning, this technique ensures plants receive the right amount of water while maximizing efficiency.
✔ Drought-resistant plants in dry zones
✔ Moderate-water plants in shaded areas
✔ High-water plants near buildings or retention basins
4. Tips for Maintaining a Low-Water Commercial Landscape
To keep your drought-tolerant landscape thriving, follow these best practices:
???? Irrigate early in the morning to reduce evaporation
???? Check for leaks in irrigation systems regularly
???? Use native grasses for erosion control and soil stability
???? Trim & prune plants selectively to encourage healthy growth
???? Monitor plant health and adjust maintenance schedules seasonally
5. The ROI of Native & Drought-Tolerant Landscaping
Investing in sustainable landscaping isn’t just good for the environment—it’s good for business.
| Benefit | ROI Impact |
|---|---|
| Water Savings | Reduces irrigation costs by up to 50% |
| Lower Maintenance Costs | Decreases fertilization, pruning & mowing expenses |
| Increased Property Value | Enhances curb appeal & tenant attraction |
| Environmental Compliance | Helps businesses meet water conservation goals |
Create a Resilient, Water-Wise Landscape
Switching to native and drought-tolerant plants is one of the best long-term investments for commercial landscapes in Colorado. Not only do these plants thrive in extreme conditions, but they also reduce water waste, lower maintenance costs, and enhance property aesthetics.
If you’re looking for a smart, sustainable landscaping solution, CoCal Landscape can help!
???? Want a water-wise landscape? Let’s design one together! Contact us today.