Water Saving | 01: Mulch

As we welcome the vibrant colors of spring and summer, it’s also the perfect time to consider

how we can use our precious water more wisely.

Here in Colorado, where dry conditions are a constant reality, a little planning goes a long way. The good news? We don’t have to sacrifice the beauty of a lush, colorful garden. With a few thoughtful strategies, we can enjoy it now and help preserve it for the future.

One practical and effective step is incorporating mulch into your garden.

Organic mulch—such as shredded wood or wood chips—forms a protective layer over the soil.

This barrier helps retain moisture by reducing evaporation, keeping plants hydrated longer and cutting down on how often you need to water.

Mulch also works double-duty by suppressing weeds. With fewer weeds competing for water, your intended plants have a better chance to thrive.

Additional primary benefits of mulch include:

• Moderates soil temperature, keeping roots cooler in summer and warmer in winter

• Improves soil structure and encourages beneficial microbial activity as it decomposes

• Reduces soil compaction and erosion

• Enhances the visual appeal of garden beds with a clean, uniform look

• Helps prevent nutrient loss by acting as a natural buffer

Beyond conserving moisture, mulch brings further advantages. It can reduce overall water use by around 20–25% and helps protect soil from wind erosion—an important consideration in Colorado’s climate.

A simple layer of mulch might seem like a small change, but it can make a big difference—for

your garden and for our shared water resources.