Preparing Your Landscape for Drought Conditions

Colorado and Utah have experienced an exceptionally dry winter, which means significant water restrictions are likely in store for the upcoming growing season. With that comes a host of other challenges—like turf stress, thinning foliage, reduced color, and increased mite activity. Thankfully, with a little forethought, this doesn’t have to be your landscape’s fate. Here are the steps to take to beat the odds.

For Your Turf

Revive Soil Treatment Applications

In a drought, every drop of water counts. Revive’s wetting agents increase water penetration, reduce runoff, breakup compacted soil, and promote deeper root growth. The result is a thicker, more vibrant lawn that uses water more efficiently and remains hydrated longer between watering cycles.

We recommend applications every three to four weeks during the growing season, April through September.

Sulfur Applications

Much of Colorado and Utah’s soils are naturally alkaline. That can be problematic because high pH can make some essential nutrients unavailable to plants. Sulfur applications mitigate this issue by lowering soil pH. The result is better nutrient availability, which supports deeper root growth and better color. Though sulfur doesn’t add moisture, it does improve the lawn’s ability to use limited amounts more efficiently.

Generally, we recommend sulfur applications twice yearly—once in March and again in October. A quick soil test can confirm whether an application would be beneficial for your property.

For Your Trees & Shrubs

Yucca Extract

You may have seen yucca extract on the ingredients list of your favorite cleanser, food, or supplement. This common ingredient also happens to be a useful natural surfactant for your landscape. Yucca improves water penetration into compacted or water-repellent soils, making it a valuable tool for promoting deeper, more efficient moisture distribution and strong root systems. That’s incredibly useful considering drought stress can have lasting effects on woody plants.

Yucca extract is best applied monthly during the growing season, April to September.

Anti-Desiccant Applications

Anti-desiccant is a thin, waxy coating that’s applied to foliage to slow moisture loss through transpiration. This breathable, protective coating doesn’t interfere with normal function, but can reduce dehydration stress caused by drought, wind, heat, or transplant shock. Though it’s not a substitute for regular watering, it can provide plants with a significant boost during periods of environmental stress.

Anti-desiccant can be applied monthly when temps are below 85 degrees. We recommend an application for one- to two-year-old evergreen trees or newly planted deciduous varieties.

Drought conditions don’t have to mean your landscape suffers. Alongside proper irrigation management, these treatments can significantly minimize your landscape’s stress. To find the right mix of solutions for your property, schedule a complimentary consultation. Our local experts will tailor an action plan specific to your needs.