Keep in mind as Summer Approaches

Alright, alright, alright—summer’s easing its way back into Chaffee County, and in Buena Vista that means longer days, warmer soil, and that familiar feeling that it’s time to get your hands back in the dirt. Before you plant a single thing, take a slow walk around your property and really look at it. Notice where the snow melted last and where it disappeared fast, because that tells you everything about moisture, drainage, and sunlight. Mountain properties have their own rhythm, and the folks who do best are the ones who listen before they act.

Once you’ve got the lay of the land, it’s time to clean things up from winter’s long goodbye. Clear fallen branches, dead growth, and leftover debris so your soil can breathe again. Up here, the ground works hard, and after months of freezing temperatures it appreciates a little care. Mixing in compost or organic matter now helps wake things up and gives your plants the nutrients they’ll need to grow strong when the heat finally settles in.

Water is gold in the Arkansas Valley, so checking your irrigation system early is a must. Whether you’re running drip lines, sprinklers, or managing ditch water, make sure everything’s working efficiently before peak summer hits. Fix leaks, adjust timers, and think smart about where your water’s going. A well-planned watering system doesn’t just save resources—it keeps your plants healthier and your stress level lower when the sun starts to mean business.

This is also the season for thoughtful pruning and preparation. Trim trees and shrubs with intention, removing damaged limbs and shaping for healthy growth, but don’t rush it—late frosts can still sneak in at this elevation. Give the soil time to warm before planting tender starts, and once it does, lay down mulch to hold moisture and keep weeds from stealing the show. A little patience now pays off big once summer finds its groove.

And finally, remember you’re not the only one excited about fresh growth. Deer, elk, rabbits, and every hungry critter in the valley are already scouting their summer buffet. Secure fencing, protect young plants, and plan ahead so your hard work doesn’t turn into someone else’s dinner. Prep your property with care, stay in tune with the land, and when summer fully arrives in Buena Vista, you’ll be sitting back knowing everything’s growing just the way it should—steady, strong, and right on time.