A fire-smart landscaping tip from UC Marin Master Gardeners
Use these important fire-smart and water-wise landscaping strategies:
● Help your soil maintain moisture by using compost and appropriate fire-smart mulches.
● Avoid planting new plants during the hot summer months. They need more water to establish themselves and thrive.
● 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.
● 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.
● Watch this video to learn how to prioritize your plants to conserve water for landscaping.
Chipper Days are here!
Make a reservation to get rid of garden debris by going to https://www.chipperday.com/marin
Visit Marin Master Gardeners for more fire-smart landscaping tips.
https://ucanr.edu/ucmarinmgfiresmart and http://ucanr.edu/ucmarinmgirrigation
