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Hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30 each year. While tropical storms can damage your home, they can also be devastating to your landscape. Today I’ll share with you some ideas on how to make your landscape more hurricane resistant.
The layout and composition of your garden affects how well it will survive a storm. Did you know that some tree species are naturally more wind resistant than others? Plants native to Florida generally handle storms better than exotic species. Do some research and plant storm resistant species such as palmetto palms, live oaks, buttonwoods, and bald cypress. Hire certified arborists to give your trees regular structural pruning that encourages wind to pass through the canopy. Keep large trees away from buildings and power lines, and know that groups of trees will survive storms better than a solitary specimen and will provide a better wind buffer for your home.
When a storm threatens, it’s time to survey your landscape and look for any items that could become projectiles. Remove dead branches in your trees, prune off any coconuts, and dispose of all yard debris. Bring in lawn furniture and decorative accessories that could be picked up by winds. Secure shrubs and bushes by staking them. Stock up on recovery supplies such as bracing materials and chainsaw equipment.
After a hurricane has passed, your landscape may look like a complete wreck. But don’t give up hope, small to medium sized trees that have been overturned are not necessarily lost. Cover the roots with burlap, heavy cloth, or soil to keep the roots moist. You may need a professional landscaping crew to help you replant it. If the tree is smaller, you can set the tree back in the hole, brace it, and cover the roots with soil and water thoroughly as if it were newly planted.
With some careful planning and preparations, you can help your landscape weather any storms that may come our way with minimal damage. Remember that healthy plants will resist storms and recover faster than sickly ones, so make sure to give your plants all the care they need.