olive groves

On this terraced property in the south of France, firescaping around the home had been mandated by local legislation. Upon removal of the canopy of pine and oak, the remnants of an approximately 150-year-old olive grove revealed itself. Being drought and fire resistant, olive trees are a perfect firescaping choice. After restoration of the ancient trees, new trees were added, completing the ancestral design of the grove. The floor of the grove was cut to the ground and with newfound exposure to sunlight, a Mediterranean prairie complete with wildflowers emerged within the first season.