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- Info
Fire-resistant plants for Oregon home landscapes
| Author: |
Fitzgerald, S.; Waldo, A.J. |
| Date: |
2001 |
| Periodical: |
Forest Resource Note |
| Link: |
http://extension.oregonstate.edu/deschutes/FireResPlants.pdf
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| Abstract: |
When landscaping around a home, most homeowners are interested in creating a landscape that is aesthetically pleasing, complements their home, and has variations in color, texture, flowers, and foliage. If your home is located in or adjacent to forests or rangeland, you also should consider the flammability of plants within your home landscape. Flammable plant material in your landscape can increase the fire-risk around your home. The 1991 Oakland Hills Fire in California is a prime example of how flammable plant material (Eucalyptus trees) can act as fuel and contribute to the intensity of a wildfire. Over 3,000 homes were destroyed in that devastating wildfire. Therefore, homeowners should take active steps to minimize or reduce the fuel and fire-hazard around their homes, including planting fire-resistant plants. Good placement of fire-resistant trees, for example, can, in fact, help protect your home by blocking intense heat. There is a wide array of trees and other plants to choose for your landscape that are both attractive (Figure 1) and fire-safe. This publication provides a diverse list of plant material divided into perennials, groundcovers, trees, and shrubs. |
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