Enhancing water retention in Colorado landscapes

For commercial landscape professionals in Colorado, where water conservation is paramount, understanding the water-retention abilities of compost as a soil amendment is crucial. With drought and water scarcity an omnipresent possibility, harnessing the power of organic matter in compost will lead to more sustainable and resilient landscapes.

Compost, often referred to as “black gold” in the gardening world, is a powerful tool for enhancing soil health and water retention. According to the EPA, compost-amended soil increases water-holding capacity, reducing the frequency and volume of irrigation needed. This is particularly significant in arid and semi-arid regions like Colorado, where every drop of water counts.

The U.S. Composting Council emphasizes that compost acts like a sponge in the soil, absorbing and holding moisture while allowing for adequate drainage. This characteristic is invaluable for drought-tolerant landscaping, where plants must thrive in limited water conditions or through restrictions on watering times.

EPA research indicates that compost- amended soil can hold up to 30 percent more water than non-amended soil. This means that for every inch of rain or irrigation, compost-enriched soil can retain a significantly higher amount of moisture, reducing runoff and irrigation times.

A U.S. Composting Council study found that landscapes with compost-amended soil showed a 50 percent reduction in water usage compared with landscapes with non-amended soil. These numbers underscore the practical benefits of integrating compost into landscape management strategies, especially in water-stressed environments.

The key to drought-tolerant landscaping

The Colorado landscape industry is no stranger to drought challenges. Drought- tolerant landscaping has become a necessity rather than a choice, and compost plays a pivotal role in achieving and maintaining it. Adding 1 percent of organic matter to the top 6 inches of soil can increase the soil’s water- retention capacity to 27,000 gallons of water per acre, according to USDA’s National Resource Conservation Service.

By improving soil structure and porosity, compost facilitates deeper root penetration and stronger plant establishment. This is crucial during dry spells, as plants with robust root systems can access moisture from lower soil layers, reducing their dependence on surface-level watering.

Moreover, compost supports development of a healthy soil microbiome, fostering symbiotic relationships between plants and beneficial microorganisms. This biological activity enhances nutrient uptake, stress tolerance and overall plant vitality, essential components of effective drought-management strategies.

Kyle Merritt, director of operations/superintendent at Eaton Country Club and president of Rocky Mountain Environmental Golf Institute, states, “For over 10 years, we have utilized A1 Organics Command Compost to accelerate growth and germination, facilitating swift restoration of divot holes in problematic areas within the fairway turf and areas with inadequate irrigation to improve the water retention.” 

Compost is a cornerstone of water-wise landscaping in Colorado. Its proven water retention abilities, supported by data from reputable organizations like the EPA and the U.S. Composting Council, make it an indispensable ally in combating drought and promoting landscape sustainability. By harnessing the power of compost, commercial landscape professionals can generate or restore resilient, thriving environments while conserving precious water resources for future generations.