Soon we will spring forward, and before we know it, it will be time to think about our gardens. But gardening isn’t as easy as it sounds or as it is at lower elevations. So, what can we do to
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Soon we will spring forward, and before we know it, it will be time to think about our gardens. But gardening isn’t as easy as it sounds or as it is at lower elevations. So, what can we do to grow a lush, colorful, and successful garden? The first thing we do is wait. High-elevation gardening begins best in June. But it doesn’t mean we can’t start planning.
Why does elevation matter? To begin with, plant growth is stunted by low temperatures caused by lots of air movement, drier wind, and low air pressure. Colder air and low soil temperatures also affect how long your blooms last.
Scorching sunlight lasts longer at high elevations and the high solar radiation, UV-B and UVA, levels can cause significant tissue damage to the plant. Low oxygen levels affect root growth. Having a limited supply of oxygen will cause plants to stress. Yes, they stress differently than we do, but stress nonetheless.
Low temperatures create unfriendly soil, leading to a lack of nutrition necessary for growth. High precipitation creates snow-packing conditions and when plants can not be active for a long time, root systems weaken.
Now let’s talk about most people’s least favorite element, the wind. Strong winds increase evaporation, making it easier for plant stems and branches to break. They also decrease the humidity levels and cause moisture stress as the plants start losing water faster.
This does not mean you can not purchase your bloomies before June, just make sure you keep them inside until it’s safe to bring them outside and keep them there. Keeping this in mind, here are some plants that do well in high-elevation gardens.
1. Alpine aster
2. Bergenia
3. Bleeding heart
4. Delphinium
5. Lupine
6. Yarrow
7. Sedum
8. Garden Phlox
9. Boltonia
10. Columbine
11. Blanket flower
12. Dogwood Tree
13. Cotoneaster
14. Mountain pansy
15. Lilacs
If you’re new to high-elevation gardening, perhaps consider speaking with your local professional garden expert for tips and tricks. As with many things, it is not as easy as black and white. There are grey areas, some purples, yellows, and greens. But once you’ve planned and have the proper information, you’ll be ready to grow a magical sea of colors that will attract hummingbirds and butterflies!
Your first tip: start planting your seeds now.
