Outdoor Safety

Spring Gardening Tip: Creating a Defensible Space

As temperatures start to warm up, many of us are excited about spring gardening. While it’s the perfect time to start planning your garden, it’s also an important opportunity to think about fire safety. One effective way to protect your home from wildfires is by creating a defensible space around your property.

What is a defensible space?

A defensible space is a buffer zone between your home and any surrounding vegetation that could potentially fuel a fire. It’s designed to reduce the risk of a wildfire spreading to your home, as well as give firefighters a safer area to work if a fire occurs. In Western Washington, where wildfires are a growing concern, having a defensible space can be a crucial step in protecting your property. This space should be clear of any overgrown trees, shrubs, or tall grasses that could catch fire.

Steps to Create a Defensible Space While Gardening:

1. Clear Dead and Overgrown Vegetation: Now is the time to remove any dead leaves, branches, or fallen trees around your home. This dry, dead material is highly flammable and can act as fuel for a fire. Weed burners and other burning methods are not recommended for normal maintenance. Clear away dead plant matter from garden beds, lawns, and anywhere near structures. Recycle compostable materials. Before doing any burning of yard debris, check our website to make sure you are following local guidelines. 
2. Trim Trees and Shrubs: Make sure that tree branches are trimmed to at least 10 feet from the ground and are not touching your house. Prune away any branches that hang over roofs or chimneys. Many native plants in the Pacific Northwest, like firs and pines, can easily carry fire, so thinning them out helps slow its spread.
3. Create Defensible Zones with Non-Combustible Materials: Around your home, create firebreaks using non-flammable materials like gravel or stone. These can be used to create pathways or borders that will slow the progress of a fire. In your garden, avoid planting highly flammable species too close to your house. Native plants like Oregon grape or sword ferns, which are more resistant to fire, are a good option.
4. Maintain Irrigation and Moisture: During the spring, keep your garden watered. A well-hydrated landscape is much less likely to catch fire.
5. Clear Roof and Gutter Debris: Make sure to regularly clean your gutters and remove any debris that could catch fire. This is especially important if you live in an area with dense tree cover.

By incorporating these simple strategies into your spring gardening routine, you’ll be taking an important step toward safeguarding your home from wildfires. Creating a defensible space not only helps protect your property, but ensures that your home is better prepared for fire season. For more information, visit NFPA - Preparing homes for wildfire. Start early, stay proactive, and keep your garden both beautiful and safe!

Do you need some help identifying ways to create a defensible space around your home? Call us at 360-363-8507 to set up an evaluation of your property.