Denver, Colorado, with its crisp fall air and stunning backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, is an ideal location to create beautiful autumn landscapes that embrace the vibrant colors of the season.
Fall in Denver is characterized by brilliant foliage, cool temperatures, and plenty of sunshine, making it the perfect time to refresh your garden or yard with seasonal charm.
5 Fall Landscape Improvements
1. Incorporate Native Plants for Color and Sustainability
To capture the beauty of fall while being eco-conscious, focus on incorporating native Colorado plants that thrive in Denver’s climate. Trees like the quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) offer breathtaking golden hues, while the Rocky Mountain maple (Acer glabrum) adds deep reds to your landscape. Gambel oak (Quercus gambelii), with its warm, orange leaves, also provides excellent color and texture during fall.
For shrubs, consider adding rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa) or sumac (Rhus trilobata), both of which contribute striking shades of red, orange, and yellow while also attracting local wildlife. Using native species ensures that your garden will require less water and maintenance as these plants are adapted to the local conditions.
2. Layer Perennials and Ornamental Grasses
Perennials like Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia), with its silvery foliage and lavender flowers, can add a splash of cool tones against the warm fall colors. Pair it with autumn sedum (Sedum spectabile), which displays coppery tones in its foliage and flowers as the season progresses. Ornamental grasses like switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) or feather reed grass (Calamagrostis x acutiflora) create movement in the landscape with their tall, wispy forms and rich, tawny colors. These grasses add depth and texture, making them ideal for fall plantings.
3. Accent with Fall Flowers
For vibrant color and a more traditional fall aesthetic, plant flowers like mums (Chrysanthemums) and pansies (Viola tricolor), which can withstand cooler temperatures and will last late into the season. These annuals can be placed in borders, pots, or flowerbeds to bring pops of red, yellow, and purple into the landscape.
4. Hardscaping and Seasonal Decor
Consider integrating hardscaping elements like stone pathways, raised garden beds, or fire pits to extend outdoor usability into the cooler months. Adding features like rustic wooden benches or decorative pumpkins and gourds can enhance the fall ambiance. For a finishing touch, hang string lights to create a cozy, inviting space for autumn evenings.
5. Mulch and Prepare for Winter
Lastly, fall is the perfect time to refresh garden beds with mulch, which not only provides a clean and polished look but also protects plant roots from Denver’s early frosts. Opt for organic mulch like pine needles or shredded bark to blend seamlessly with the natural setting.
By combining native plants, rich fall colors, and functional outdoor spaces, you can create a Denver landscape that fully embraces the beauty of the autumn season while preparing for winter’s arrival.