top of page
Search

Hardscape vs. Softscape: Which Affordable Landscaping Option Is Best for Your Colorado Springs Yard?

When you're planning a beautiful and functional outdoor space in Colorado Springs, it can be tricky to choose the right type of landscaping—especially when balancing aesthetics, budget, and maintenance. At Green & Growing LLC, we believe in educating our community about affordable landscaping solutions that make sense for Colorado's unique climate.

Let’s dig into some key terms and help you decide what works best for your landscape.


What Is the Difference Between Hardscape and Softscape?

Before we dive into the specifics, let’s clear up two fundamental landscaping concepts:

  • Softscape refers to the living, horticultural parts of your landscape—things like grass, flowers, shrubs, and drought-tolerant plants.

  • Hardscape includes the non-living, man-made elements such as patios, walkways, retaining walls, rock beds, and water features.

Most landscaping designs in Colorado Springs combine both hardscape and softscape features to create a well-rounded, functional outdoor space.


Common Landscaping Methods in Colorado Springs

When considering affordable landscaping in Colorado Springs, it helps to understand a few popular landscaping approaches:


Xeriscape

  • A water-wise landscaping method that uses drought-tolerant plants and efficient irrigation.

  • Common in Colorado due to our dry climate.

  • Technically a softscape method, though it often includes hardscape elements like stone or gravel for design and functionality.


Zeroscape

  • A variation of xeriscaping that uses no living plants—just gravel, rock, or dirt.

  • Primarily a hardscape approach.

  • Perfect for those who want extremely low maintenance.


Artificial Turf

  • Synthetic grass that looks and feels like real grass.

  • Great for reducing water usage and maintaining a green lawn year-round.

  • Durable and pet-friendly.


Sod

  • Rolls of natural grass and soil that are installed for instant greenery.

  • A more traditional option with a natural look and feel.

  • Affordable upfront, but requires ongoing watering and maintenance.


Choosing the Best Landscaping Option for Your Home

Every yard is different—and so are your priorities! Here’s what to consider before choosing a landscaping solution:


1. Aesthetic Preferences

Do you love a lush green lawn, colorful flowers, or a sleek, minimalist look with clean gravel lines? Your personal style will help narrow down your landscaping choices.


2. Budget

If you're looking for affordable landscaping in Colorado Springs, you'll want to balance upfront costs with long-term maintenance savings. For example:

  • Sod is cheaper to install, but costs more to maintain.

  • Xeriscape has a higher upfront investment, but saves big on water bills.


3. Maintenance

Don’t have time for mowing, weeding, or watering? Low-maintenance options like artificial turf or zeroscape might be your best bet.


4. Durability

Do you have kids or pets running around? You’ll need a durable solution that can withstand heavy foot traffic and seasonal weather shifts.


5. Climate & Soil

Colorado Springs has diverse soil conditions and big temperature swings. A professional soil test can help identify what landscaping methods will thrive in your specific yard.


6. Pet-Friendliness

If you have furry friends, you’ll want to choose materials and plants that are safe and comfortable for them.


Comparing Your Landscaping Options

Let’s take a closer look at how each method stacks up in key categories:

Category

Artificial Turf

Sod

Xeriscape

Zeroscape

Pet Friendly

✅ Very pet-friendly; no mud, soft texture

✅ Pet-safe but can get muddy

✅ Use pet-safe plants; may need careful selection

🚫 Not ideal for play or pet comfort

Durability

✅ Extremely durable, handles traffic and weather

🚫 Less durable, can get patchy

⚠️ Somewhat durable, but plant-dependent

✅ Highly durable with minimal wear and tear

Longevity

✅ Lasts over a decade with proper installation

⚠️ Needs replacement or repair every few years

✅ Long-lasting when properly installed

✅ Longest-lasting option

Maintenance

✅ Minimal—just occasional rinsing or brushing

🚫 High—needs watering, mowing, fertilizing

✅ Low maintenance after establishment

✅ Virtually no maintenance

Cost (Initial)

⚠️ Medium-to-high initial investment

✅ Most affordable to install

⚠️ Higher cost due to plant selection and soil prep

✅ Affordable and cost-effective

Cost (Over Time)

✅ Saves money on water and upkeep

🚫 High water and maintenance costs

✅ Reduces water bills and effort

✅ Biggest cost saver over time

Visual Appeal

✅ Green and uniform look year-round

✅ Traditional and natural

✅ Unique, colorful, pollinator-friendly

⚠️ Can feel barren or less inviting

Best for Sunny Areas

✅ Great with heat-resistant varieties

⚠️ Can dry out or burn

✅ Ideal for sunny spots with drought-resistant plants

✅ Sun doesn’t impact gravel or rock

Best for Shaded Areas

✅ Doesn’t need sun to stay green

🚫 Struggles in shade

⚠️ Plant choice is important for shady areas

✅ Works well in shade too

What’s the Most Affordable Landscaping Option in Colorado Springs?

  • Sod is the most affordable initial investment.

  • Zeroscape is the most cost-effective long-term due to minimal maintenance and no water needs.

  • Artificial turf offers a balanced value: higher upfront cost, but big savings over time.

  • Xeriscape is a beautiful, eco-conscious middle ground that balances sustainability with visual appeal.


Final Thoughts: What's Right for You?

Choosing the right landscaping method depends on your goals, your budget, and how you use your outdoor space. Whether you're dreaming of a lush lawn, a low-maintenance rock garden, or a colorful xeriscape full of native Colorado plants, we’re here to help make it happen.

At Green & Growing LLC, we specialize in affordable landscaping in Colorado Springs. We pride ourselves on honest advice, beautiful designs, and long-lasting solutions tailored to your property.


Ready to Refresh Your Yard?

If you want help deciding which landscaping option works best for your Colorado Springs home, give us a call or visit greenandgrowingllc.com. We’d love to bring your dream yard to life—without breaking the bank.


📞 (719) 439-4930


Comments

bottom of page