fire-wise water-wise garden
FIRE WISE GARDEN
Demonstration and Meeting Area
The brigade has installed a fully functioning kitchen and provided a meeting area in one of the fire brigade buildings for members of the community to meet and receive information.
Building upon the Brigades In Schools programme we will demonstrate to pupils and parents the fire safe message at home and leading up to the bush fire season. We will examine where fires are likely to occur in the home and demonstrate the use of fire extinguishers, fire blankets and smoke alarms. We will assist people in developing their Fire Plans. The main purpose for developing this area is to involve parents and other family members.
Fire wise-water wise garden
There is no such thing as a fire retardant plant. All vegetation will burn under the right circumstances. The aim of the Badger Creek Fire Brigade display garden is to offer residents practical advice on garden layout and choice of plants.
We live in a fire prone area where our properties may be exposed to bushfire and ember attack. It is possible to design gardens to minimize the effect of fire and to make our houses safer. Bushfire is a fact of life but this does not mean we cannot have an attractive garden.
The demonstration garden has a selection of indigenous plants, which are suitable for the site. There are large trees nearby, damp areas and mulched sections. The garden requires minimum water. Water is provided from a rainwater tank alongside the garden.
You may wish to consider the following features in your own garden:
Indigenous plants are fire tolerant. These plants flower at the right times to attract native birds into your garden. Using indigenous plants ensures that these plants will survive and prosper in our area as well as the birdlife they support.
Mixing native and European plants is not a good idea because European plants require high phosphorous fertilizers, which will kill native plants.
Properly mulched garden beds placed away from the house should stay damp over summer or dry periods. Correct placement of mulch beds is important so they don’t become dangerous during a bushfire.
The type of plants selected and placement of these around your house is important. Plants, which will burn more readily, should be placed on their own 10 metres away from the house and 10 metres apart. Be aware of the characteristics of the plants you choose. For example. Large shrubs can slow down ember attack by trapping embers and acting as a windbreak.
Bob Anderson is our gardener and is available for help and advice on most Sunday mornings
Indigenous plants are fire tolerant
Mixing native and European plants is not a good idea
Properly mulched garden beds
The type of plants selected and placement is important
For a comprehensive list of plants, click here