Fireproof your landscape

July 20, 2023

In Northern Colorado, wildfires are an annual concern, and not just for remote mountain communities. As weather patterns shift and dry conditions become more common, homeowners in both rural and suburban areas are looking for ways to protect their properties. One of the most effective ways to improve your home’s defense is through fire-wise landscape maintenance.

A thoughtfully designed and well-maintained landscape can slow the spread of fire, reduce the risk of damage to your home, and even give firefighters the space they need to work. This concept is called defensible space, and it starts right in your yard.

Create Space Between Plants and Structures

When planning your landscape, spacing is everything. Plants that are too close together or too close to your home can allow fire to spread quickly. Flames can “ladder up” from groundcover to shrubs and into the canopy of trees. To prevent this, space out trees and large shrubs, and avoid layering different heights of vegetation in a single area. It’s also critical to keep a safe buffer zone around your house. The first 30 feet should be a lean zone free from overgrowth, cluttered plantings, or materials that can easily ignite.

Remove Flammable Debris

Routine maintenance goes a long way in fire prevention. Dead or dying plants, dry leaves, pine needles, and other debris flare up quickly during a wildfire. Be sure to clear out dead vegetation regularly, especially anything growing under trees or near the foundation of your home.

Mow native grasses and weeds to six inches or less within 30 feet of your house, and keep your gutters clean, dry leaves and needles in gutters are a major hazard. Well-hydrated plants are also less likely to catch fire, so consistent watering is another key part of landscape maintenance in drier parts of the year and especially fire-prone regions.

Choose Fire-Resistant Plants and Materials

Not all greenery is equally flammable. Replace dry, woody, or resinous plants with fire-resistant species that retain moisture and grow low to the ground. These include many types of succulents, deciduous shrubs, and native perennials. Instead of bark mulch or wood chips, which can smolder and spread fire, opt for gravel, stone, or decomposed granite near your home’s foundation.

In patio areas, choose non-combustible materials like concrete, brick, or pavers to act as effective firebreaks. A landscape design professional can help you select the best materials and plants for both aesthetics and safety.

Fire Safety Starts with Landscape Maintenance

Firewise landscaping is not a one-time project, it requires consistent upkeep. Regular maintenance ensures that defensible spaces stay clear and healthy over time. From seasonal pruning to debris removal and plant replacement, staying on top of yard work can make a critical difference in protecting your home.

Need help designing a fire-resistant landscape or keeping your current yard in wildfire-ready shape? Lindgren Landscaping specializes in landscape maintenance and design for Northern Colorado homeowners who care about safety and sustainability.

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