The CJ Landscaping Blog

Practical landscaping tips for Denver & the Front Range.

Real, local advice from Jon and the CJ crew, plants that thrive at altitude, hardscape that survives our winters, and a lawn that stays green through the seasons.

Water-wise xeriscape planting beds with ornamental grasses and flowering perennials in a Denver backyard
Landscape Design

Best Water-Wise & Xeriscape Plants for Denver Landscapes (2026 Guide)

The water-wise plants we use most, and how to design with them so xeriscape never means low-style.

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Circular paver patio with a brick border in a Denver Front Range backyard
Hardscape

Pavers vs. Concrete in Colorado: Which Patio Survives Denver Winters?

How each one really handles freeze-thaw, frost heave, and de-icing salt, on cracking, cost, repairs, and resale.

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Freshly prepped and amended planting beds in a Denver Front Range backyard
Landscape Design

How to Prep Denver's Clay Soil

The #1 thing that makes a Front Range landscape thrive — get the soil right.

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Paver patio landscaping project in Denver
Pricing

How Much Does Landscaping Cost in Denver? (2026 Guide)

Real 2026 price ranges for design, patios, sod, and full builds — and what drives the number.

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Xeriscape landscaping on the Denver Front Range
Xeriscape

Xeriscaping on the Front Range: A Denver Homeowner's Guide

Cut your water bill and still have a yard that looks incredible on the Front Range.

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Cold-hardy planting beds for Westminster and Thornton yards
Plants & Design

Best Cold-Hardy Plants for Westminster & Thornton Yards

Tough, beautiful plants that shrug off Front Range winters and hail.

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Retaining wall hardscape in Colorado
Hardscape

Retaining Walls in Colorado: Costs, Materials & When You Need One

What they cost, which material to pick, and when your slope actually needs one.

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Landscaping project in Golden, Colorado
Local Guide

Landscaping in Golden, CO: Designing for Foothills Slopes & Views

Designing for foothills slopes, views, and the unique conditions west of Denver.

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Spring lawn and landscape in the Denver metro
Maintenance

Spring Landscaping Checklist for the Denver Metro

Exactly what to do each spring to wake up a Denver-area yard the right way.

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Drip irrigation in a Front Range yard
Irrigation

Smart & Drip Irrigation for Front Range Yards

Water deep, water smart, and stay green within Denver Water's rules.

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Backyard patio and fire pit ideas for Arvada and Broomfield
Outdoor Living

Backyard Patio & Fire-Pit Ideas for Arvada & Broomfield Homes

Patio, fire-pit, and outdoor-living ideas built for northwest-metro backyards.

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Choosing a landscaper in Denver
Hiring Guide

How to Choose a Landscaper in Denver: 7 Questions to Ask First

The 7 questions that separate a pro from a problem — before you sign anything.

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Lawn options for Colorado yards
Lawns

Sod, Seed, or Xeriscape? The Best Lawn Choice for Colorado

Cost, water, and upkeep compared so you pick the right lawn for Colorado.

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