Recent wildfires in Los Angeles and the west coast have prompted many homeowners to think differently about the ways in which they organize their outdoor spaces. Specifically, residents are looking for ways to create the most sustainable and fire-resistant gardens to thrive on their property.
Sustainability has become a major focus in the world of gardening in the US. Incorporating native and eco-friendly plants not only benefits the local environment and wildlife, but can create a beautiful atmosphere.
On the west coast specifically, residents in places like Los Angeles and Western North Carolina are now looking for not only sustainable plant options, but fire-resistant ones in response to recent wildfires. Forbes Magazine reports that Google searches for “fire resistant plants” and top eco-friendly plant options has hit an all time high.
Succulents are a top eco-friendly plant for the West Coast. One of the easiest ways to incorporate sustainable practices into your property is by planting native plants, as they will take less fertilizer and water to thrive based on your state’s specific ecosystem. When doing research for your home, it’s recommended that you speak with local experts to determine the best plants for your area based on light conditions and soil as well.
Tryggvi Thorsteinsson, principal architect in Los Angeles, told Forbes that a major aspect of the conversation surrounding sustainable gardening now has to do with resilience when it comes to a plants ability to hold up with local weather conditions and recover from severe events.
“We define sustainability as long-term performance – ecologically and structurally. Fire safety, water use, and low maintenance must all align.”
Wildfire resilience in high-risk areas is an issue regarding both durability, and sustainability, according to Thorsteinsson.
“Some native plants are more fire-prone than others due to oils and seasonal drying. The focus should be on noncombustible or low-ignition species, many of which are also drought-tolerant – such as succulents. With careful selection, it is possible to achieve both water conservation and fire resilience, but not all native plants are appropriate,” he stated.
“Fire-resistant is not enough – everything exposed to the elements should be noncombustible. Landscape materials, fences, and exterior structures all contribute to fire spread, and they must be part of the solution, not the problem,” Thorsteinsson said.
The president of the California Landscape Contractors Association, Lindsay Ono, added: “Ultimately, a well planned fire-safe landscape design does more than beautify a property. It serves as a frontline defense, reducing the likelihood of fire spreading to fences, outbuildings, and – most importantly – the home itself.”
Ono also said that people who are looking to create a more sustainable fire-resistant garden should “steer clear of species that drop large amounts of leaves, bark, seed pods, or needles, as this debris can accumulate quickly and become fuel for embers.”
“Trees and shrubs that retain dead branches or trap debris within their canopies can also increase fire risk. Additionally, plants with strong, aromatic scents—such as some herbs and evergreens—often contain high levels of oils or resins, which can burn hotter and faster.”
“Take time to walk the perimeter of your home and look for vulnerable areas where embers or flames could travel from nearby structures, vegetation, or debris. Understanding and applying the principles of Defensible Space Zones – as outlined by Cal Fire’s Ready for Wildfire program – can help you create a more fire-resilient property,” Ono recommended.
Jason Keeley, a gardner and lawn care company founder, discussed how homeowners are adjusting their garden set-ups in Western North Carolina after facing wildfires and hurricanes in recent months.
“The flooding left behind a lot of dead vegetation and unstable slopes, which became fuel during the fires. Also, erosion control measures post-flood weren’t always fire-conscious.”
Keeley then discussed some of the projects they implemented that they think can help many other homeowners:
“We designed them with ‘hardscape buffers’ – gravel pathways, patios and stone walls – that created natural firebreaks. In these cases, even when the fire approached, it lost intensity before reaching structures.”
“Several of our more recent projects were developed with fire-resistance in mind, especially for homes near forests or with sloped lots. We use xeriscaping techniques, native perennials with high moisture content, and non-flammable mulch alternatives. We also educate clients on regular maintenance like clearing debris and pruning low tree limbs to avoid ladder fuels,” Keely said.
Ono also emphasized that sustainable and fire-resistant gardens don’t have to look desolate or desert-like.
“A fire-safe landscape doesn’t have to resemble a barren desert. In fact, it can be vibrant, artistic, and environmentally friendly. Thoughtful design choices—like incorporating gravel pathways and flowerbeds—can not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of a yard but also serve a critical function in wildfire prevention. These pathways act as natural firebreaks, helping to stop ground fires from spreading while also guiding the eye to key focal points throughout the garden,” he said.
Eric Mastrota is a Contributing Editor at The National Digest based in New York. A graduate of SUNY New Paltz, he reports on world news, culture, and lifestyle. You can reach him at eric.mastrota@thenationaldigest.com.
