Hurricane Preparedness

Identifying Hazards

With hurricane season at hand after experiencing Hurricane Irma in late 2017, hurricane preparedness is a must to check off our to-do list. Below are some tree hazards that are to be addressed, if they have not been already:

•  Branches: Inspect the branches on all trees in your property. If there are any twisted, dead or broken limbs, remove them to minimize waste post hurricane.
• Staked/Braced trees: If the trees had braces installed on them after hurricane Irma, let them remain to be re-evaluated after the hurricane passes.
• Dense canopy: Be cautious in the reduction of branches to prevent stressing the tree.
• Make sure any hanging plants and potted plants are moved indoors and that outdoor furniture/items are secured

Right Tree/Right Place/Location/Pruning

To prevent future complications with the plantings on your property during the hurricane season, you can start with the following:

• Location: To have shade and an attractive home can often be used to determine where to plant trees but it is even more important to choose a spot where the tree will not impact any existing utility lines. Doing so can prevent power outages and help the branches safely grow.
• Proper planting: To ensure the viability of trees and shrubs, they are to be planted properly by addressing any defects with the roots at the time of planting.
• Pruning cuts: Since wounded trees do not heal, make sure that pruning cuts are done properly. The cuts can either aide or hinder the process of the tree compartmentalizing the damage done to it. Keep in mind that structural pruning increases the integrity of the tree to prolong its life and make it secure in the landscape.

Additional information:

It is highly recommended to hire a tree care professional for tree pruning and to schedule an appointment with a Certified Arborist to see if these or any other hazards exist on your property. Visit this link to find a Certified Arborist in your area.

Tree Protection Ordinance
FPL Reference