Sooke hosts free Wildfire Resilient Gardening workshop

Learn about FireSmart plants for your garden at a June 14 workshop from the District of Sooke.

As wildfire seasons become longer and more severe, small actions around the home can make a meaningful difference – why Sooke residents are encouraged to register for a free, practical workshop exploring how to build resiliency in their gardens.

Hosted by the District of Sooke, the Wildfire Resilient Gardening Workshop takes place Sunday, June 14, from noon to 3 p.m. in the Council Chamber at Sooke Municipal Hall, the District announced.

Participants will learn how to design, plant and maintain outdoor spaces that are both beautiful and more resilient to wildfire, including easy-to-follow tips for creating FireSmart landscapes:

• how to choose more resilient plants

• managing mulch and groundcovers

• identifying vulnerable areas in the yard

• garden design strategies that can help reduce risk

“You don’t need to completely redesign your yard to make it more wildfire resilient,” says District of Sooke FireSmart Coordinator Madison Crawford. “This workshop is about sharing practical, approachable ideas residents can use at home – whether that’s choosing plants that are better suited to our area, rethinking where mulch is placed or making small changes around the house that can help reduce wildfire risk.”

Part of the District’s broader wildfire preparedness efforts, residents are also encouraged to participate in free FireSmart Yard Waste Disposal Days this May. Drop-off is available Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the District of Sooke Parks Yard, 2070 Kaltasin Rd. (District of Sooke residential property owners and occupants only; commercial loads not permitted.)

Open to residents age 16 and older, the workshop welcomes both new and experienced gardeners. Attendance is free, but registration is required through Eventbrite here as space may be limited, the District notes.