Landscaping involves planning, installation, and ongoing care of outdoor spaces to ensure they remain functional, attractive, and well-suited to the environment. This complete guide to landscaping focuses on how Denver’s changing seasons, temperature swings, and periods of limited moisture influence landscaping decisions throughout the year.
By understanding what landscaping entails, the various types of landscapes used in the Denver area, and how seasonal conditions affect maintenance and planning, you can make more informed choices for your property and approach landscaping with greater confidence.
At Westside Grounds, we help homeowners and property managers across Denver communities manage those conditions every day. Locally owned and operated in Lakewood since 1999, we offer comprehensive landscaping and grounds management services for both residential and commercial properties.
With specialized crews, professional equipment, and consistent quality control, we help properties stay functional and well-maintained year-round.
What Is Landscaping?
Landscaping is the planning, installation, and ongoing care of outdoor spaces. It features natural elements, including grass, trees, shrubs, and plants, as well as built-in features such as patios, walkways, retaining walls, and irrigation systems. The goal is to create an outdoor area that is both functional and visually balanced.
While landscaping often overlaps with lawn care, the two are distinct. Lawn care focuses on routine maintenance tasks, such as mowing and fertilizing. Landscaping takes a broader approach by shaping how an entire outdoor space is designed, used, and maintained over time.
Understanding this landscaping guide helps clarify the various types of landscapes and why seasonal planning plays a crucial role in achieving long-term results.
What Types of Landscapes Are Common in Denver?
Denver properties encompass a diverse range of landscape styles, influenced by the space’s intended use, maintenance preferences, and water management considerations. At Westside Grounds, we work with all types of landscapes for both residential and commercial properties, often combining multiple approaches to create outdoor spaces that are functional, durable, and visually cohesive.
Some of the most common and specialized types of landscaping in the Denver area include:
- Xeriscaping and low-water landscapes. Xeriscape designs utilize drought-tolerant plants, mulch or rock ground cover, and efficient irrigation systems to minimize water usage. These landscapes are popular among properties seeking to conserve water and reduce long-term maintenance.
- Hardscaping features. Hardscaping includes patios, walkways, retaining walls, fire pits, and other built elements. These features add structure and usability to outdoor spaces.
- Irrigation-focused landscapes. Some landscapes are designed around efficient irrigation systems that support lawns, planting beds, and trees. Proper zoning, drip irrigation, and seasonal adjustments help maintain plant health while minimizing water waste.
- Planting beds and seasonal landscapes. These landscapes emphasize shrubs, perennials, mulch, and soil health rather than large turf areas. They allow for seasonal updates and are often used to add color and definition throughout the year.
Most Denver properties use a combination of these landscape types, which is why a customized approach is often the most effective way to support both appearance and long-term performance.
Why Does Seasonal Landscaping Matter in Denver?
Seasonal landscaping plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy and functional outdoor spaces in Denver. Weather conditions can shift quickly, and each season brings different demands for lawns, plants, irrigation systems, and hardscape features.
Understanding how each season affects landscaping makes it easier to plan and adjust care as conditions change.
Spring
Spring is a transitional period when landscapes recover from winter stress and begin to grow actively. This is the time to clean up debris, address damage from snow or ice, and prepare lawns and planting beds for the growing season. Irrigation systems are typically inspected and restarted in spring to ensure they are operating efficiently before temperatures rise.
Summer
Summer places the most stress on Denver landscapes due to heat, sun exposure, and limited rainfall. Proper watering, mowing, and plant care are critical during this season to avoid drought stress and turf damage. Summer landscaping focuses on maintaining plant health while efficiently managing water use.
Fall
Fall is a key season for strengthening landscapes before winter. Cooler temperatures allow plants to recover, roots to grow, and soil conditions to improve. Tasks often include aeration, pruning, and cleanup to help landscapes enter winter in better condition.
Winter
Winter landscaping is less about growth and more about protection and planning. Snow removal, ice management, and protecting plants from cold damage are priorities during this season. Winter is also a useful time to plan future landscaping projects, allowing for implementation when conditions improve.
When to Consider Professional Landscaping Services
Landscaping needs can change over time, and this complete guide to landscaping explains why some situations are easier to manage with professional support as properties grow and seasonal demands increase.
Professional landscaping services are often worth considering for:
- Burdensome maintenance. Inconsistent mowing, missed seasonal tasks, or improper watering can slowly affect the health and appearance of a landscape.
- Irrigation or drainage issues. Sprinkler systems, drip lines, and drainage features require regular adjustments and occasional repairs to function efficiently.
- Larger projects. Installing hardscaping, redesigning planting beds, or converting to a low-water landscape often requires specialized equipment and experience.
- Seasonal transitions. Moving from winter to spring or fall to winter involves timing-sensitive work that helps protect plants and turf.
Working with a professional landscaping team can simplify ongoing care and help landscapes stay healthy and functional throughout the year.
Bringing Your Denver Landscape Together Year-Round
Landscaping is an ongoing process that evolves with the seasons, weather conditions, and the changing needs of your property. Taking a seasonal approach helps protect your outdoor space, prevent avoidable issues, and support long-term health and appearance. When you make landscaping decisions with timing and conditions in mind, properties are easier to maintain and better prepared for Denver’s shifting climate.
From routine lawn care and irrigation maintenance to landscape design, installation, and seasonal services, Westside Grounds understands all the key aspects covered in this complete guide to landscaping. Our experienced crews manage every stage of outdoor care. We focus on delivering consistent service, reliable equipment, and practical solutions that adapt to changing conditions.
If you’re looking for dependable landscaping support or planning improvements to your outdoor space, Westside Grounds is ready to help. Contact us today to discuss your property and discover how professional, year-round landscaping services can help you achieve your goals.