Fire-Wise Landscaping

Fire Chief Debunks Defensible Space Myth

In this presentation Todd Lando, Battalion Chief and Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Specialist, discusses defensible space, applicable fire codes and ordinances covering zones 0 – 4, and busts myths as it relates to creating defensible space. Choice of vegetation around your home is just one aspect of creating defensible space.

  • Thoughts on the Los Angeles 2025 Fires by Greg Rubin
    Following the devastating Los Angeles fires, landscape contractor Greg Rubin shares insights on fire-resistant landscaping gleaned from over 20 years of experience and the mentorship of CalFire firefighter Bert Wilson. He emphasizes the importance of plant hydration over specific plant selection, advocating for light overhead irrigation of native plants and shredded redwood mulch to create defensible space and protect homes from ember attacks. Rubin also proposes community-level solutions like lightly irrigated native greenbelts to buffer homes from wildland fires.
  • The Making of a Swale
    Follow Judy’s journey as she builds a small swale in Kensington.
  • Eucalyptus: Garden Friend or Fire Foe?
    MetroView, July 2023: This article explores the fire safety implications of eucalyptus trees, highlighting their potential fire hazards in wild canyon areas, especially due to their shedding bark. It contrasts the risks of non-native species with the benefits of drought-tolerant native plants for fire resistance. The piece also offers practical advice on using swales to conserve moisture while reducing fire risk.
  • Coif Your Canyon to Reduce Erosion and Flammability
    MetroView, Mar 2023: This article advises homeowners in canyon areas to plant fire-resistant species like Baccharis ‘Pigeon Point’ and use swales and rain barrels to capture water, reduce erosion, and improve fire safety. It also emphasizes the importance of diversifying plants for better fire suppression and disease resistance.
  • What to do if a neighbor doesn’t trim trees or brush that may be a fire hazard
    Here are our suggestions for working with neighbors to create a safer Kensington.
  • CANYONLANDS: Brush Management Guide and Video Presentation
    So, are you ready to start clearing that hazardous, overgrown brush and make your home and community safer? Good for you! But before you get started, here’s a helpful guide and video tutorial from SD Canyonlands to help you do it RIGHT.
  • Master Gardener Cindy Bruecks on Fire Safe Landscaping
    On Wednesday, November 17, Master Gardener Cindy Bruecks gave a Zoom presentation on Fire Safe Landscaping. We’ve provided a link to the video of the presentation in this blog.
  • Landscaping Your Home in a Fire Area
    Could you and your house survive a fire? Would firemen have a chance to save it? Read this article from Las Pilitas Nursery about fire safe landscaping.
  • Reminder to Keep Your Fan Palms Trimmed
    Fan palms are beautiful, but the drying fronds that drape down the trunk can easily ignite in a wildfire and spread embers throughout the neighborhood.
  • Mulch, Flames and Gorillas?
    A fire-wise guide to mulch.