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Maintaining healthy plants through the summer is a fire-smart strategy. Well-hydrated plants have been found to be more resistant to embers and ignitions. Use these important fire-smart & water-wise landscaping strategies:
- Help your soil maintain moisture by using compost and appropriate fire-smart mulches outside of Zone 0.
- Learn how much water your plants need and give them the right amount. This will help keep your plants healthy and happy.
- Water your plants in the early morning, applying water to the base of the plant within its dripline.
- OVER IRRIGATION IS COMMON. Consider using flow meters, soaker hoses, drip irrigation, and irrigation controllers for more efficient administration and monitoring.
- Use fertilizers sparingly. They make plants grow quickly and require more water to support new growth.
- Avoid planting new plants during the hot summer months. They need more water to establish themselves and thrive.
- Remove invasive plants and weeds which take water from other plants.
- Reduce the size of your thirsty lawn.
- On days with Red Flag warnings, avoid changing your irrigation schedule or using more water. Using excessive water for irrigation reduces the water available to our fire personnel.
Learn more about irrigation here.
Learn about prioritizing plants for water conservation here.