How to Protect Your Garden from Wildfire Smoke: Expert Tips from Beyond Landscaping

With wildfires becoming more frequent across the Pacific Northwest, including North Vancouver, the effects of smoke on both human health and the environment are increasingly concerning. Wildfire smoke can also harm your garden, reducing plant growth and damaging leaves, especially in moisture-loving plants. Protecting your garden from wildfire smoke is essential to maintaining its health and appearance during fire season.

We spoke with Cory Brewer, founder of Beyond Landscaping, to gather expert advice on how you can shield your plants from the harmful effects of smoke while promoting eco-friendly gardening practices.

What Are the Effects of Wildfire Smoke on Garden Plants?

Wildfire smoke consists of tiny particles and pollutants that block sunlight and reduce photosynthesis, which is crucial for plant growth. These particles can also coat leaves, preventing plants from “breathing” properly. Cory Brewer explains:

“The long-term effects of wildfire smoke on garden plants include stunted growth, reduced photosynthesis, and potential leaf damage due to soot accumulation. In North Vancouver, moisture-loving plants such as ferns, hostas, and perennials like lavender are particularly vulnerable to smoke exposure.”

In addition to moisture-loving plants, evergreen trees and shrubs, like cedar and juniper, can suffer from smoke-related stress. This may result in browning needles and diminished growth, which can affect your garden’s overall aesthetic and health.

Protecting Your Garden from Wildfire Smoke

To minimize damage from wildfire smoke, Cory Brewer suggests these protective measures:

1. Cover Plants with Fine Mesh:
Using breathable, fine mesh covers shields your plants from smoke particles while still allowing air circulation. This prevents harmful soot from settling on leaves without suffocating the plants.

2. Rinse Foliage Regularly:
Hosing down your plants helps remove soot and smoke particles that can block photosynthesis. Regular rinsing restores their ability to grow and thrive despite smoke exposure. If possible, use rainwater to wash plants—it’s eco-friendly and helps reduce water consumption.

3. Use Mulch to Protect Soil:
A thick layer of mulch, such as bark or sustainably sourced straw, protects the soil from smoke-related toxins while retaining moisture. Mulch acts as a barrier, preventing pollutants from penetrating the ground and helping to maintain a healthy ecosystem.

4. Activate Charcoal Soil Amendments:
Activated charcoal is a great tool to neutralize toxins in your garden soil. This is especially useful if you suspect airborne pollutants have already seeped into the ground. By neutralizing these contaminants, your plants can recover and continue to grow.

5. Install Drip Irrigation Systems:
Using a drip irrigation system can ensure that your plants receive consistent hydration even during smoky conditions. Keeping plants well-hydrated is vital, as wildfire smoke can dry out foliage more quickly than normal.

Balancing Protection with Eco-Friendly Gardening

Protecting your garden from wildfire smoke while maintaining sustainability is key for eco-conscious homeowners. Cory Brewer recommends opting for biodegradable plant covers and eco-friendly materials wherever possible:

“Opt for organic and biodegradable covers for plants to avoid contributing to plastic waste. Use rainwater to wash plants, which reduces water consumption and helps naturally filter pollutants.”

When choosing mulch or soil protection, prioritize materials that support local biodiversity, such as sustainably sourced bark or straw. These methods not only protect your garden but also enhance the local ecosystem, contributing to overall environmental health.

Additional Tips for Garden Care During Fire Season

Beyond the basics, here are a few more expert tips for keeping your garden in top condition during wildfire season:

• Shade-loving plants can benefit from being temporarily moved to shaded areas if possible, reducing their exposure to direct smoke.
• Prune smoke-damaged foliage to prevent further stress on your plants.
• Use organic fertilizers to strengthen plant roots and improve resilience.

Final Thoughts

Wildfire smoke poses a significant challenge for gardeners in North Vancouver and the surrounding areas, but with the right strategies, your garden can thrive even in adverse conditions. By using eco-friendly, sustainable practices and taking proactive steps to protect your plants, you can maintain both the health of your garden and the local environment.

Don’t let wildfire smoke damage your landscape. For personalized advice and expert landscaping services, contact Beyond Landscaping today. Visit our blog for more expert tips on garden care during wildfire season and beyond.