It seems like wildfires are featured in the media more and more. When I read articles about wildfires, I always see talk about evacuations and how some plants might protect your home from fires. On the surface, that sounds great. However, there’s much more to this picture.
While fire-resistant plants will certainly aid you in preventing fires closer to your property, no plant is going to save your home from a wildfire. Your goal in creating a fire-wise landscape is to design an area where fires are unlikely to move toward your home. Succulent plants are probably the most well-known for being fire-resistant. This is due to the fact that they store plenty of moisture in their leaves. However, they’re really just a small piece of a greater fire-wise landscaping puzzle. If you understand how each type of plant behaves, then you’ll find yourself making smarter decisions when selecting the right plants for your landscape.
Can Fire-Resistant Plants Save My Home From a Wildfire?
The main reason fire-resistant plants don’t catch fire quickly is that they have more moisture in them compared to plants that are full of dry material. Additionally, many plants produce little dry material that can serve as fuel for fires. Defensible space, which is a term that refers to clearing away all combustible materials within a radius of at least three feet of structures, is something that wildfire professionals often stress. Generally speaking, plants that have moist leaves are slow-burning. In contrast, dry grasses and/or shrubs release oils and waxes when burning.
But again, even though fire-resistant means you’re less likely to lose everything, it doesn’t mean your plants won’t burn if you’re hit with extreme heat from a wildfire. To add to that, proper upkeep is just as crucial as choosing the right types of plants. Leaves that fall off plants, branches that break off trees, and overgrown growth all contribute to fire hazards.
Creating a fire-wise landscape should be part of a larger plan for preparing for fires.
As previously mentioned, fire-resistant plants can help lower your chances of losing your home to a wildfire. Due to their high moisture levels and ability to provide attractive ground cover and visual appeal without producing excessive amounts of dry fuels, succulents are widely recommended as part of defensible-space strategies in fire prevention circles. Not all succulents are created equal. However, most share similar characteristics that promote fire-wise landscaping.
Which Succulents Are Best Suited for Fire-Wise Landscapes?
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has large, wet leaves and is a common choice for fire-resistant landscaping. It grows relatively easily in the right climate.
Agave
Like aloe vera, agave stores lots of water in its thick leaves and can provide a very dramatic appearance in a landscape. Regularly removing dead leaves helps reduce the potential for accumulation.
Sedum (Stonecrop)
Sedum is another name for stonecrop and is often chosen as a ground cover. It provides good coverage for bare spots while keeping the amount of fuel relatively low. There are many types of sedums, and they all work fairly similarly.
Ice Plant
Ice plant grows quickly and stores moisture in its plump leaves. It is often used in fire-resistant landscaping and drought-tolerant landscapes.
Maintenance remains essential even with succulents. Never let dead material accumulate.
There Are Other Fire-Resistant Plants Worthy of Consideration
While many people go crazy for succulents, there are many other options worth considering for inclusion in a fire-wise landscape.
Lavender (If Maintained Properly)
Lavender produces oils naturally; therefore, lavender is included in many fire-wise plant lists provided it’s regularly trimmed back and free of dead growth.
Yarrow
Yarrow is appreciated for its moist leaves and is often used in gardens designed to decrease fire risks.
California Lilac and Others Like Them
Native plant options vary based on location. Most local extension offices can offer suggestions on native plant options available for different locations.
Deciduous Trees
Maple, poplar, and cherry trees are examples of deciduous trees that are usually less flammable than most coniferous trees. This is because they retain more moisture throughout the year when actively growing.
Plant Types That Can Increase Fire Risks
Some plants are more prone to igniting than others due to their production of oils, wax, or resin, or the accumulation of dry materials.
Juniper and other cypress species, highly resinous shrubs, and ornamental grasses with fine dry foliage all meet the criteria for plants that could potentially allow fires to spread quickly.
In addition to using proper plant selections, consistent upkeep of your lawn and garden will be far more effective in decreasing fire risk than the types of plants you select.
What I’d Do to Create a Fire-Wise Lawn
To develop a fire-wise lawn, I would first concentrate on spreading out my plants so they do not touch each other. Also, I wouldn’t put too many densely vegetated plants near my home. Then, I’d use succulents nearest my structure and take care to remove dead leaves consistently. Additionally, I would maintain tree size and height to minimize dry debris buildup near structures. In addition, I’d clean gutters regularly and refrain from letting debris collect on my property. What I’ve learned from past experiences is that the single most effective method is not finding a “perfect” plant. Rather, consistently taking care of the whole lawn and garden area makes the biggest difference.
Finally, follow any local guidelines related to preparation for wildfires as part of your overall plan.
Fire resistance is beneficial for creating defensible spaces around homes. Succulents like aloe vera, agave, sedum (and other varieties), and ice plant are often suggested as having enough moisture stored in them. But remember, no matter how well you pick plants, none of them will fully protect your home from a wildfire. By incorporating both fire-wise landscaping designs along with regular maintenance and defensible-space practices, you’ll be able to create a safer and more sustainable environment.
