If you are gardening in Colorado you must be the kind of person who loves a challenge. Making your yard look its best means solving a puzzle that is the state's diverse climate, accounting for high elevation, and factoring in the variable soil conditions in your area.

Read More: These 6 Plants Are Illegal to Grow in Colorado

Keep reading to learn three important tips for successful gardening in Colorado and more about some of the plants that do very well along the Western Slope in places like Grand Junction, Delta,  and Montrose.

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Climate-Adapted Plants Best for Colorado

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Successful gardening in Colorado starts with getting to know the native and drought-tolerant species of plants that thrive at a higher elevation. These plants often require less water, and less tlc, meaning your garden requires less maintenance. Plants that will look great in any Colorado garden include Rocky Mountain penstemon, blue columbine, and several types of sagebrush.

Everyone loves garden fresh veggies, right? Vegetables with shorter growing seasons like potatoes, kale, and spinach will do nicely.

Read More: 10 Plants for Your Colorado Yard

Effective Watering Practices for Colorado's Climate

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The best gardens in Colorado use just the right amount of water which can take some practice. The Colorado Rocky Mountain School recommends a drip irrigation that delivers water to plant roots. Less water is lost to evaporation in arid regions like Colorado’s high desert.

Colorado gardens love mulch. Use it to keep the garden moist and at a consistent temp which can help slow down weeds. Organic mulches including straw or wood chips will work best.

Gardening & Colorado's Temperature Extremes

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Keeping all the plants in your garden healthy means guarding them against Colorado’s extremely hot and cold temperatures. Row covers can protect plants from the surprise frosts that can extend into the growing season. In places like Mesa and Montrose counties, late spring and early fall frost have ruined plenty of plants so be ready to protect yours.

Windbreaks can also be a big help in Colorado, especially during the spring which can be the windiest time of year. Fences and hedges can go a long way to protect a garden from damage caused by these conditions.

WARNING: Extremely Dangerous Plants Growing in Colorado Right Now

If you love spending time outdoors in Colorado you need to keep an eye out for dangerous plants that can be found almost anywhere in the Centennial State. These plants can cause painful rashes and blisters, or even be fatal if consumed. Check out 14 plants to avoid at all costs for people and pets in Colorado.

Gallery Credit: Wes Adams

MORE: 25 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Colorado's Garden of the Gods

Colorado's Garden of the Gods sits near the foot of Pikes Peak and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the state. Find out 25 things you should know before planning your visit by scrolling through the photos below.

Gallery Credit: Wes Adams

UP NEXT: The Colors and Scents Mosquitos Love and Hate

Avoid being eaten alive by mosquitos this summer by giving yourself a fighting chance with these DIY repellents you can use today. Please scroll through the gallery below to find out what colors attract these little blood-suckers, which colors they ignore, and what kinds of scents will keep them away all day.

Gallery Credit: Wesley Adams

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