Across California’s Elysian Park, something remarkable is growing—native plants, carefully placed by local volunteers, are becoming a powerful line of defense against wildfires. Spearheaded by landscape design firm Terremoto, the community-led effort known as Test Plot is transforming park spaces with drought-resistant flora that not only restores biodiversity but also helps slow the spread of flames.
These gardens are more than just beautiful—they’re practical. Invasive plants like black mustard and eucalyptus dry out and ignite easily, but California’s native wildflowers and shrubs hold moisture and resist fire. Since launching in 2019, Test Plot has expanded to eight park plots, drawing over 500 volunteers, some of whom are discovering a new sense of purpose in land stewardship. As wildfires grow more severe, these quiet, green patches are offering both protection and hope.