10
May

A defensible space is something your rural home needs to protect from fire. Firewise landscaping helps to plan for all the possibilities and create a beautiful defensible space. A range of plant materials are used to create a space that adds value to your home, while keeping the family safe.

Firewise Landscaping and Deciduous Species of Plants

Firewise landscaping will use mostly deciduous species of plants. These are low amounts of sap and resin, meaning they don’t have the same fuel that other plants tend to have. This doesn’t mean you can’t have others, but deciduous look good and beautiful in the summer. You will need to collect the leaves that fall during the winter. The dead leaves will become a fire hazard.

Firewise Landscaping with Wildflowers and Groundcovers

Plants and trees that are low to the ground offer the benefit of low fire risk. It’s harder for the fire to jump to the lower sections, so wildflowers and ground covers are extremely popular.
Another benefit of low plants is they’re easier to prune and manage. The last thing you want (unless you have a very green thumb) is to feeling like you’re constantly caring for your trees. Low maintenance options will require less work picking up after them and pruning. Other plants and trees that require little maintenance are also popular. While some pruning will be needed, you get to focus more on the enjoyment of your home.

Reduce the Relandscaping Costs

Aspens are extremely popular for Firewise landscaping plant materials. When they grow, they don’t have as many needles and leaves that are highly combustible, keeping the spread of the fire to a minimum. Aspens are also much better when it comes to relandscaping if a fire does happen. They resprout much quicker than other options, helping to reduce your costs to build up your defenses and look of the forest again.

For any questions about doing  wildfire mitigation around your property, contact Colorado Mastication.