Firewise Landscaping and Plant Flammability (.pdf file) - More
people are moving into Ohio’s rural areas, increasing the
chances of wildfire. - “Defensible space” is the primary
determinant of a structure’s ability to survive wildfire. -
Native species are generally the best plant materials for
landscaping in defensible space, but others can be grown
successfully in Ohio. - To be a Firewise homeowner, plan well,
plant well and maintain well. Ohio’s population is growing and
people are building more homes in what was once natural forest
and grasslands. Newcomers to rural areas need to know how to
correctly landscape their property to reduce wildfire hazards.
Improper landscaping worries land managers and fire officials
because it can greatly increase the risk of structure and
property damage from wildfire. It is a question of when, not if,
a wildfire will strike any particular area. Vegetative clearance
around the house (defensible space) is a primary determinant of
a home’s ability to survive wildfire. Defens