When most people think of landscaping, they think of creating a beautiful outdoor space. While this is certainly one benefit of landscaping, there are other benefits that are just as important, if not more so. One such benefit is the ability to protect your home from fires. Believe it or not, strategic landscaping can actually help protect your home from wildfires. Keep reading to learn how!
What constitutes fire-smart landscaping?
A fire-smart landscape goes beyond having a well-maintained yard. This type of landscape uses strategically planted fire-resistant plants to combat the spread of fire to your home.
Create defensible space
One of the most important benefits of landscaping is that it can help to create a buffer between your home and potential sources of fire. This is especially important if you live in an area that is prone to wildfires. By creating a defensible space using fire-proof plants and other vegetation, you can help to prevent embers from reaching your home and igniting it. Keep in mind that vegetation that touches your home’s siding, is in front of windows, under eaves and vents, or near a deck will increase the likelihood that a home will be destroyed during a wildfire. When designing fire-smart landscaping, you’ll want to make sure there is at least 5 ft of room (we call this defensible space) between your home and any vegetation. This can include walkways, stone, or other non-flammable materials. These can still look great and act as a barrier between your home and flammable vegetation.
Arrange plants in “islands”
A staple of fireproof landscaping includes separating sections into islands of vegetation. When the continuity of plants is separated, the likelihood of fire rapidly spreading throughout your yard and to your home decreases significantly. Learn more about the different Defensible Space zones as outlined by Cal Fire.
Prune trees and vegetation
Trees and plants shed their leaves and older branches as they age. Remove lower branches, prune to create a more open structure, and clean up dead leaves and branches at the base to decrease the potential that fire will climb from the ground to a plant or tree. Proper pruning techniques apply the same for trees and all woody plants.
Consider tree safety
To maintain the benefits of large trees while simultaneously increasing fire safety, plant trees 5 feet away from structures, prune the lower limbs, and eliminate vegetation, vines, and other dead fuels that would allow for fire to move from the ground up the tree. If a tree is diseased or showing signs of decline, consider replacing it.
Need help with your Northern Nevada landscaping projects?
The benefits of landscaping are not just limited to fire protection. Landscaping can also help to improve the overall look of your home, increase its value, and even help to save energy. If you are thinking about landscaping your home, contact DRC Landscaping to learn more about the benefits of landscaping and how our fire-smart designs can help protect your home.
