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FireWise Plant Materials

By S. Carter, N. Goeckner, C. Julian (CSFS), L. Langelo, I. Shonle and C. Dennis (Emeritus CSFS) (4/23)

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/natural-resources/firewise-plant-materials-6-305/#

Quick Facts…

• The right plants around structures are important for wildfire safety.
• Management of defensible space and plant types is essential.
• This fact sheet is one of a series of three.
• Plants rated 10 have the least flammability.
• This fact sheet recommends low flammability plants for zones 1 and 2.
• Refer to the Colorado State Forest Service’s Home Ignition Zone guide for further details on home ignition zones.

Introduction

In Colorado, in the wildland-urban interface (WUI), it isn’t a matter of if a wildfire will impact residences and properties, but when. The WUI includes any areas where structures and other human developments meet or intermingle with wildland vegetative fuels, including grasses, shrubs and trees. Wildfires are a natural part of Colorado’s varied ecosystems. Planning ahead and taking action to reduce the risk of wildfires can increase the likelihood a home survives when wildfires do occur. Firefighters do their best to protect residents, but ultimately, it’s your responsibility to protect your property and investments from wildfire.

This fact sheet is a part of a series of three publications created to help homeowners focus on actions that are effective in reducing wildfire hazards on properties. These efforts should always begin with the home or structure itself and progress outward. Defensible space is the area around a home or other structures that has been modified to reduce fire hazards by creating space between potential fuel sources.

In the defensible space, natural and man-made fuels are treated, removed or reduced to slow the spread of wildfire and alter fire behavior. Plants that are low flammability are selected for planting, especially closer to the home.

Creating an effective defensible space involves establishing a series of management zones. Develop these zones around each building, including detached garages, storage buildings, barns and other structures. Recognize that fuel continuity and density play a critical role in wildfire behavior. Zones are defined from the structure edge in feet:

• Zone 1: 0-5 feet
• Zone 2: 5-30 feet
• Zone 3: 30-100 feet

This fact sheet covers plants in zones 1 and 2; a different publication; the Fire-Resistant Landscaping fact sheet, discusses plants in zone 3. For a defensible space plan for properties, contact the nearest Colorado State Forest Service field office or local CSU Extension office for guidance. Consult with a forester, fire department staff or community organization appropriately trained in wildfire mitigation practices.

Opuntia (Photo by I. Shonle)

 To view the entire article:

https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/natural-resources/firewise-plant-materials-6-305/#