High Altitude Nature and Gardens – The vital refuge: water, soil, and the path to wellness

• The intelligence of the soil
• Fire mitigation and local resources
• Sunshine as a shield

By Janet Sellers

In our current drought-stricken season, our landscapes require more than just a passing shower—they need a protective “skin.” As we navigate these arid conditions in the Tri-Lakes area, the practice of mulching transcends simple maintenance; it becomes an act of stewardship for both our local ecology and our personal health.

The intelligence of the soil

Recent botanical research highlights that plants possess a sophisticated “intelligence,” utilizing sensory systems to detect magnetic fields and nitrogen levels. These living systems are constantly communicating, but they are under immense stress during a drought. Mulch acts as a vital barrier that slows the evaporation of precious moisture, keeping root systems cooler and reducing plant stress.

The late physicist Richard Feynman—whose work I’ve long admired for its clarity—often reminded us that a tree is not just a thing to be named, but a process to be understood. When we touch a tree, we are touching a living system that has literally built itself out of air and sunlight. By protecting those roots with a deep layer of mulch, we are honoring the biological wonder Feynman marveled at, ensuring the soil remains a hydrated foundation for the “solidified light” that is a tree.

Fire mitigation and local resources

While it might seem counterintuitive to add organic material in a fire-prone area, the type and depth of the material matter. A local firefighter recently shared that he utilizes a deep, 6-8-inch layer of mulch for both garden health and safety. This thick application keeps the soil and underlying plant roots hydrated. Living, hydrated plants are far less likely to ignite than dry, brittle ones. Furthermore, by suppressing weeds and keeping the ground “green” from the bottom up, we are creating a more fire-resistant refuge.

While most people have and should have a wide and clear area of about 5 feet around the home, mulch definitely should not be within 5 feet of the home or any structure. There are vital fire mitigation features to be aware of:

• Zone 1 (0-5 feet): This is the “immediate zone” from your foundation. Use non-combustible materials only, such as rock or gravel. Avoid wood mulch, shrubs, and “ladder fuels” that allow fire to climb.
• Under decks: This is the most dangerous spot for mulch. Clear it out entirely and replace it with gravel to prevent “under-house” ignitions from drifting embers.
• Annual maintenance: Even with rock mulch, you must rake out the ”duff” (blown-in pine needles and leaves) annually. This debris can accumulate and ignite on top of the rocks, bypassing your mitigation efforts.

The Black Forest Slash/Mulch (BFSlash) program is located near Shoup and Herring Roads, with free mulch to residents and a responsible way to dispose of tree slash. The 2026 schedule for mulch retrieval begins in May, with loader services available on Saturdays for a modest $5 fee. Details are available at https://bfslash.org/. See a photo of the Mountain View Electric Association’s mulch event on page < 19 >.

Sunshine as a shield

As you head into the garden, remember that the sun provides more than just energy for your plants. Emerging health perspectives suggest that maintaining optimal Vitamin D levels through sensible sunlight exposure is critical for immune regulation. Interestingly, Vitamin D is increasingly recognized for its role in mitigating the effects of tick-borne illnesses. As a gene-regulating hormone, it strengthens the immune system—the most critical element in defending against the complications of Lyme disease. Optimal levels help the body manage the inflammation and systemic fatigue often associated with these infections.

While you work to protect your soil, ensure you are also protecting yourself. Wear your gardening gear, but don’t fear the sun; it is a fundamental partner in your physiological resilience. Together, a well-mulched garden and a well-nourished body create a restorative portal of health right in our own backyards.

Janet Sellers is a professional artist, writer, and featured speaker on neuroaesthetics and restorative design. Contact her for speaking engagements or inquiries at janetsellers@ocn.me.

Other High Altitude Nature and Gardens articles

• High Altitude Nature and Gardens – Attracting hummingbirds the safe and beautiful way (4/1/2026)
• Palmer Lake Historical Society, Feb. 19 – Ranch owners discovered Cherokee Trail artifacts (3/4/2026)
• High Altitude Nature and Gardens – A Colorado calendar, seed rolls, and Effective Microorganisms (EM) (3/4/2026)
• High Altitude Nature and Gardens – Rooting out crime: How our community’s flowers protect more than just plants (2/4/2026)
• High Altitude Nature and Gardens – Mini outdoor greenhouses, cinnamon to protect soil and seedlings (12/31/2025)
• High Altitude Nature and Gardens – Festive stuff: winter beauty outdoors, indoors, and holiday acorn bread (12/4/2025)
• High Altitude Nature and Gardens – November tips, paper-bagging geraniums, compost poles (10/30/2025)
• High Altitude Nature and Gardens – Cornmeal in the garden; sweet potato leaf greens (10/1/2025)
• High Altitude Nature and Gardens (HANG) – Fall and the forest: creating soil beds and a blue spruce kitchen treat (9/3/2025)
• High Altitude Nature and Gardens – Wild Horse Fire Brigade: successful fire mitigation since the beginning of…plants (7/31/2025)