Despite recent snowfall and rains, El Paso County remains in the throes of a severe drought and a forecast from the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control warns that the ongoing drought conditions could change. intensify throughout 2021, which means another year of significant and destructive fires.
More than a quarter of the residences in El Paso County are part of the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI). This is the area where structures and other human developments meet or mingle with the fuels of the wild lands, and these homes are particularly prone to forest fires.
There are steps you can take to reduce the risk of home inflammation if you live in WUI. One of the most important things you can do is create a 3 to 5 foot non-combustible perimeter immediately around your house. This is to prevent embers from a nearby fire landing on flammable material next to your home and catching fire.
The perimeter should be swept or raked regularly for leaves and needles. The perimeter can be made up of bare mineral soil, slabs, concrete or gravel. Note that gravel can be a bit difficult to remove debris, so flat stones may be easier in the long run. This perimeter can double as a functional walkway around the house.
Another critical step is to remove all conifers (including pine, spruce, juniper, and arborvitae) and play oak within the first 30 feet of your home if you live on larger land, or 15 feet. if you live on a smaller lot.
People often resist creating a defensible space because they believe it will be unattractive and a moonscape – but it doesn’t have to! Native drought tolerant plants can provide beauty and habitat for insects and birds. (For a list of plants: extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/natural-resources/firewise-plant-materials-6-305). Plants that are more resistant to forest fires tend to grow without accumulating large amounts of combustible branches, needles or dead leaves; have a low sap or resin content (many deciduous species); have a high moisture content (succulents and some herbaceous species); and are short and grow close to the ground (wildflowers and ground cover). In addition to plants, consider incorporating non-flammable artwork, sculptures, pathways, benches, patios, seating, and decks into your design.
Loss of privacy can be another concern. Plant tall deciduous trees and shrubs 30 feet from the house to regain your privacy. Some good trees include fruit trees, crabapples, hawthorns, chestnuts, and netting hackberry. Taller shrubs include Lilac, Cherry, Rocky Mountain Maple, and Cheyenne Orange.
Send your gardening questions to [email protected]. In-person support will be open 9:00 am to noon and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Wednesday 17 N. Spruce St. Follow on Facebook at Colorado Master Gardeners – El Paso County.