Garden tip: Protecting your home from wildfires
What can you do in that 5-foot area extending out from your house? The Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority says this area should be kept free of anything combustible. Many homes are destroyed when embers ignite near a structure. Many of us have shrubs or trees growing right up next to our houses. These will probably need to be removed.
What can you do with this bare ground? What can you do that is aesthetically pleasing?
You can start with hardscaping. Pavers with crushed rock and pebbles between them are a good choice.
All plants are flammable. You can use non-woody, herbaceous plants that are low-growing and widely spaced. Succulents are a good option. Look for dudleya, echeveria, senecio and sedum.
— Katie Martin, UC Marin Master Gardeners