It’s important to take fire hazards into account when planting a home garden! Sometimes it can go by the wayside, but fires do happen. You want to be prepared for the worst in order to avoid damage to both your house and the landscaping around it. But how?
If you live in an area prone to fires, we’ve got you covered! Follow these five tricks:
1. Keep Your Distance:
Planting shrubs and trees too close to your house can leave it susceptible to damage. If a fire sparks, it’ll spread to any shrubs around it. Shrubs that are located close to the house can cause the fire to reach its exterior. A general rule of thumb is to have at least five feet of distance between your house and the closest shrub. The shrubs closest to the house should be low-growing plants that can retain moisture.
2. Choose the Right Plants:
As we said above, picking plants that retain a high amount of moisture is a smart move. Also, stay away from plants that attract tree sap, oil, wax or leaves – all things that are known to ignite fires and spread. From a tree perspective, avoid junipers, pines, firs, and spruces, and instead go with a broadleaved tree that is less flammable.
3. Keep Your Plants Healthy:
In reality, plants that are in good condition are a lot less likely to catch fire than those that are dead and dry. Make sure to water your plants regularly and keep them well-pruned without weeds, leaves or branches intermixed. A consistent schedule will go a long way!
4. Keep Your Lawn Mowed:
It’s proven that low grass will decrease the chances of your lawn catching fire. As it surrounds areas with mulch, shrubs and flower beds, it won’t attract flammable dead leaves and branches and will also serve as a barrier, so a fire doesn’t spread. Keep it mowed and watered at all times.
5. Avoid Wooden Decks and Fences:
We all know wood is highly flammable. Wooden decks and fences can serve as beautiful additions to the landscaping around our home, but they also have the potential to start/spread fires. Instead, go with a stone patio in the general area of your garden. It won’t catch fire and will actually stop it. The same goes for fencing—use metal instead.
We hope these tips will help keep your home landscape fire-free!
We invite you to contact us if you have questions.
Please stay healthy and we hope to hear from you soon to discuss your property search and status.
Until Next Time!
Semper-Fi
Eric