Many common plants naturally resist fire and can even slow its spread. In general, well-watered and maintained leafy plants burn slowly. Select plants that don't produce much litter. Plants that accumulate dead branches and twig or that produce oils, resins, waxes or turpines should be avoided. Lawns and mowed meadows are examples of excellent defensible "Clean, Green and Lean" landscaping.

The Villager Nursery has compiled a list of fire resistive plants that should be considered when landscaping around your home. We have gleaned only the hardiest species appropriate for Truckee referencing lists (by Fire Departments, Departments of Forestry and fire prevention agencies) from across the globe.

By replacing highly flammable vegetation with these recommended species, you can significantly improve the survivability of your home when a WILDFIRE threatens. These plants should be planted in small groupings or isolated to prevent fire spread. To preserve their fire resistance, plants must be maintained: watered and pruned to remove dead leaves and branches. Routine care will provide you with an attractive defensible space against wildfire. Contact the Villager Nursery for selections appropriate to your microclimate and please contact Truckee Fire Department and visit the websites listed below for much more information about the details of defensible space. Defensible space is not “clear-cutting” or the removal of all vegetation. Creating defensible space involves removal of obvious hazards and managing vegetation to slow the progress of fire. This may be as simple as moving a woodpile, cutting back a stand of brush or planting fire-resistant plants. It is each homeowner's responsibility to our community.