Firewise Landscaping: Basic Principles and Plant Choices

Firewise landscaping is primarily about surrounding your home with the least flammable plant choices possible, not over planting, and keeping up with yard maintenance to prevent the build-up of flammable debris. Every plant is flammable, but some are more resistant than others. Here are a few tips to get you started.

Primarily herbaceous, low-growing plants with relatively high moisture content.

Junipers, other conifers and broadleaf evergreens contain oils, resins and waxes that make them more flammable. They can still be incorporated into your firewise design, just be sure to situate them away from the home and plant them where they can reach their full size at maturity without being overcrowded.

A 30-foot diameter around your home should be landscaped with only plants that

are low growing, herbaceous, and consistently irrigated. When planning, be sure to allow each plant enough room to reach its full size at maturity. Avoid planting evergreens in this area. Set up your irrigation system in advance, and mulch all plants thoroughly to keep them well hydrated. (Note: Wood mulch can be a fuel source and should not be used within five feet of the home.)

The area extending up to 100 feet from your home is an ideal location for grasses, lawn, rock and low-growing shrubs. Plant in small groupings with hardscape between to act as fuel breaks. If you choose to plant evergreen shrubs or trees, situate them between 30-100 feet from your home.

If your property merges with the natural chaparral woodland area, be sure to thin any existing shrubbery on the fringes of your property. If you choose to landscape this area, select native species which can easily adapt to our climate.