And most can be found in Colorado nurseries. When you shop at a nursery or catalogue, be sure to use the Latin name of the plant. Native plants are notorious for claiming look-alike popular names that confuse the everyday gardener. Kathy watered twice a week in the spring when she first planted. Of course, that s not necessary if there s sufficient rainfall.
Many native plants are accustomed to spring snow run-off, especially in the foothills.
By summer she began tapering off. Once established, her plants required little care and less water. Trees are difficult to recommend. The typical native, such as the cottonwood, grows by a stream with its roots deeply extended into the water. It s not a drought-tolerant tree.