Be Firewise

By Marlene Finley

Marlene Finley, Skagit County WSU Extension Master Gardener

The recent wildfires in Hawaii make it clear again that few locales are immune from the devastating effects caused by wildfire. Despite Western Washington’s wet reputation, we also are not immune to wildfires, especially during drier years. Here in Skagit County, we also are facing moderate drought. (See https://www.drought.gov/states/Washington )

A recent climate impact study developed by the University of Washington’s Climate Impacts Group, reported that the temperature in Washington has increased 1.5° F over the last 20 years. This climate summary makes three dire predictions. First, historically unprecedented warming is projected throughout the century. Second, warming temperatures will lead to earlier melting of mountain snowpacks which are critical for spring and summer water supplies. In addition, more precipitation will be in the form of rain instead of snow, which could lead to flooding. Last, wildfires are predicted to occur more frequently and with greater severity during dry summer months. Warming temperatures are expected to cause additional forest mortality and long-term transformation of forested landscapes across the Northwest by increasing wildfire, insect outbreaks, tree diseases, and drought stress. (Source: University of Washington Climate Impacts Group)

As gardeners, we are keen observers, taking notice of the slightest changes in our gardens and surrounding natural areas.

We tend to be a curious lot and as a result, tend to be good problem solvers. Considering the trends and predictions, there are plant choices and gardening practices that will help keep our treasured landscapes resilient and thriving under the threat of wildfire and a changing climate.

Firewise landscaping is an array of practices promoted by the National Fire Protection Association (NPFA) and others to create a defensible space around your home that can slow a wildfire or discourage ignition. Vents, eaves, and gutters should be free of leaves or other debris, areas under decks should be clear of flammables, and plants growing near a home should be fire-wise, meaning a low probability of catching fire. Trees overhanging roofs can be problematic in the event of wildfire.

These are a few practices you can take to be prepared this fire season:

First, remove fire fuel wherever possible.
Clean your gutters of debris and make sure your roof is clear of leaves and moss. Many of the large, catastrophic fires in the West in recent years were fueled by warm, dry, and in many cases extreme wind, blowing hot embers as much as a mile in advance of the fireline. These embers catch fire in dry leaves in gutters and unscreened attic vents, eaves, and soffits. Install 1/8 inch metal mesh screening to block embers.

Never store flammable materials underneath elevated decks or porches (for example firewood) and clean dead vegetation from between deck boards and under the deck. Visit Firewise.org for more information. Skagit Conservation District schedules free, customized homeowner assistance on reducing the threat of wildfire, as well as providing helpful information specific to our area on their website.

Second, plant for moisture resilience.
Healthy plants tend to be more resilient to swings in temperature and moisture. Choosing plants to fit the specific conditions in your garden, considering soil, moisture, sun exposure, and otherwise gardening factors will help create a resilient garden.

Get the List and Let’s Talk Plants!
An excellent publication produced by Washington State University, Oregon State University, and the University of Idaho titled Fire Resistant Plants for the Home Landscapes. This free pdf download includes an extensive list of plants that tend to be less flammable. See the resources below.

Plants that include these characteristics are, in general, good choices for fire-wise gardens:
1. Higher moisture content in their leaves
2. Little build-up of dead vegetation
3. Resistance to drought
4. Low, compact growth form
5. Leaves that will not catch and hold embers

Consider groupings of plants and introduce more diversity of species or varieties to assure more vitality. A well-designed plant community tends to be more drought-tolerant and insulating to extreme changes. Native plants often make good choices. Both Skagit Conservation District and the Salal Chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society hold regular native plant sales and can advise you of good choices for resilient, fire-wise plants for your particular needs. During the Master Gardener plant sale in May, you’ll find recommended groupings of plants that grow well together, both aesthetically and ecologically.

In addition to choosing the right plant for the right place, watering plants during extended dry spells is critical. Even drought-resistant plants need water, especially in the first year or two after planting as roots become established. Drip irrigation systems that deliver just the right amount of water at the correct intervals help conserve water during dry months. See our recent blog post on DIY Drip Irrigation > https://www.skagitmg.org/diy-drip-irrigation/