Top 10 Climate-Related Tips for Landscaping in Calgary
Landscaping in Calgary presents unique challenges due to its unpredictable weather and seasonal extremes. From our frosty, cold winters to dry, windy summers, adopting a weather-specific landscaping strategy ensures that your yard remains beautiful and functional year-round.
Below, we discuss several tips for landscaping in Calgary’s weather that will help ease maintenance requirements and help your home’s landscape retain its beauty over the long run.
#1. Choose Native Plants and Hardy Perennials
When designing your landscape, consider plants that have evolved to thrive in Calgary’s prairie climate. These species are better suited for extreme temperatures and require less maintenance.
a. Native plants like saskatoon berry bushes, wild columbine, and prairie sage are well-adapted to local conditions.
b. Hardy perennials such as daylilies, rudbeckia, and hostas survive droughts and seasonal frosts with minimal care.
c. Aim for diversity in your planting to create a balanced and vibrant ecosystem.
#2. Understand Calgary’s Frost Cycles
Frost poses a significant risk to your landscape, even in late spring, and can damage plants if you’re unprepared. Protecting plants from frost is essential for their long-term health and growth.
a. Use frost-resistant plant varieties or early-season covers to mitigate damage, which include alpine aster, bearded iris, blazing star, black-eyed susan, blanket flower, and blue flax, to name a few.
b. Delay planting annuals and vegetables outdoors until mid-May for better frost protection.
c. Consider cold frames or cloches to extend the growing season and shield more delicate plants.
#3. Opt for Drought-Resistant Turf or Ground Cover
Calgary’s semi-arid climate means water conservation should always be a priority. Traditional lawns can be high-maintenance, so drought-tolerant alternatives are excellent substitutes.
a. Plant ground covers like sedum, creeping jenny, or stonecrop for vibrant, low-water landscaping.
b. Invest in xeriscaping (a water-wise landscaping method that reduces the need for irrigation through the use of plants and design techniques) with hardy ornamental grasses or decorative gravel for a modern aesthetic.
c. Water-efficient turf blends, featuring species such as bluegrass and fescues, are ideal for striking a balance between style and function. This is one of the most crucial landscaping tips for Calgary’s climate, ensuring your lawn thrives while conserving water.
#4. Use Mulch to Retain Soil Moisture
Mulch not only conserves water but also improves soil structure and temperature regulation. It’s an indispensable tool for any Calgary gardener.
a. Spread mulch generously around trees, shrubs, and flower beds to retain moisture.
b. Opt for natural mulches such as pine bark, cedar chips, or compost-based products for soil enrichment.
c. Replenish mulch annually to maintain its effectiveness and visual appeal. This simple step supports sustainable landscaping tips for Calgary weather.
#5. Design for Efficient Water Use
Smart water planning enables your yard to stay green without unnecessary waste. Efficient watering methods contribute to a healthy, sustainable landscape.
a. Incorporate plants that rely on minimal watering once established, such as lavender and yarrow.
b. Group thirsty plants together and place drought-tolerant ones in separate areas for zoning.
c. Install soaker hoses in your garden beds to reduce water loss due to evaporation.
#6. Build Windbreaks to Shield Your Yard
Strong winds, especially during Chinooks, can dry out soil and damage plants. A thoughtful approach to windproofing your garden protects against these issues.
a. Plant dense trees such as aspen or spruce for natural wind protection.
b. Use trellises and climbing plants to create vertical gardens that act as wind barriers.
c. Add lattice fencing or vertical screens to shield vulnerable areas from heavy gusts.
#7. Use Retaining Walls for Sloped Yards
Sloped yards are common in Calgary, and retaining walls can help you manage these areas effectively. They prevent erosion and maximize usable space.
a. Build terraces or levels within your yard for a practical yet elegant design.
b. Retaining walls made of natural stone, concrete, brick, or engineered blocks offer both durability and visual consistency.
c. Integrate seating areas or planting spaces into retaining wall designs for multifunctionality.
#8. Adopt Year-Round Landscape Planning
Designing a landscape that looks appealing in every season ensures that your yard isn’t overlooked during colder months. Thoughtful, year-round planning creates consistency.
a. Add coniferous trees like white pine for lush greenery in winter.
b. Hardscaping features like fire pits or sculptures offer focal points even in snow-covered settings.
c. Incorporate shrubs with berries, like mountain ash or chokeberries, to brighten the landscape in the colder months. These ideas align perfectly with practical landscaping tips for Calgary weather.
#9. Amend Soil for Better Growing Conditions
Calgary’s soil can lack organic matter and nutrients, so amending it is an important step for success. Understanding your soil type will make your plants flourish.
a. Test soil regularly to determine if it requires amendments like lime or sulfur to adjust pH.
b. Mix in compost, green sand, or peat moss to improve texture and moisture retention.
c. Avoid over-tilling, as this can damage soil structure and lead to erosion problems over time.
#10. Protect Plants with Proper Winterization
Winters in Calgary can be harsh, so preparing your plants for extreme cold is critical. Simple steps can go a long way in maintaining a healthy landscape.
a. Prune your trees and shrubs correctly before winter to strengthen their structures.
b. Apply anti-desiccant sprays on evergreens to prevent them from drying out in the cold.
c. Cover delicate plants with burlap wrappings to shield them from windburn and frost heaves.
Questions about Landscaping in Calgary Weather?
By following these landscaping tips for Calgary’s climate, you can create a resilient and thriving landscape that complements Calgary’s unique weather. From choosing the right plants to implementing water-saving strategies, thoughtful techniques will ensure your outdoor space is both beautiful and sustainable.
At Calgary Dreamscapes, we specialize in residential and commercial landscaping solutions of all sorts. Get in touch with us anytime to start planning your dream landscape today!