Landscaping is an umbrella term that can be broken down into two subcategories: softscaping and hardscaping. Softscapes include all organic, plant materials within a landscape, whereas hardscapes are permanently built structures or features within a landscape.

Softscape is in the name. It softens up the harsh and rigid exteriors that come with concrete, retaining walls, structures, and rock. Softscape is what evokes your senses and creates your sense of place. It can make you feel like you are in a private Zen garden or expansive meadow. Softscape encourages healthy ecosystems, provides food and habitat for wildlife, promotes good soil, acts as erosion control, and helps to cool urban spaces.

In simple terms, plant-driven design is all about choosing the right plant for the right location. Working with, and not against, Colorado’s unique environmental conditions allows us to cultivate landscapes that will thrive and mature. Plant-driven design considers ecological performance, uses stress as an asset, implements layers of vertical planting, and focuses on management rather than maintenance.

Yes, we install irrigation for all plant installations, including xeriscaping. Even drought-tolerant plants need water!

It’s tough to be a plant in Colorado with vast temperature swings, poor soil conditions, high pH, hot and dry summers, and harsh winters. Knowing stress factors, site conditions, and appropriate plant selection are important to consider with any new landscape installation.

Xeriscaping is a water-conscious form of landscaping that uses adapted or native plants to that region. Water-conscious landscaping is incredibly important in Colorado with pressures from drought, climate change, and water availability. While xeriscapes are low maintenance, they still require some care and water. Xeriscaping, contrary to popular belief, is so much more than a “rock yard,” and it can be truly stunning! Check out our Xeric Gardens project to see the potential of xeriscape.

Please contact us for help with irrigation. We take time to accurately program your irrigation system for optimal efficiency and function. Any changes or adjustments made by homeowners will negate KALEIDOSCAPE’s warranties.

No, KALEIDOSCAPE does not offer warranties with softscaping. It is difficult to warranty plants, as there are many factors (i.e. weather, water, pathogens, disease) outside of our control. However, we are extremely selective and intentional with the plants we choose, and we use proper planting techniques, soil amendment, and watering to ensure they start from a place of success.