Keep your trees standing and your home safe with these trusted, Florida-specific protection tips.
1. Schedule a Pre-Storm Tree Health Assessment
One of the most important steps you can take before hurricane season is having your trees professionally assessed. Many storm-related tree failures are caused by underlying issues that aren’t visible to the untrained eye.
Certified arborists look for:
- Signs of decay or disease
- Structural weaknesses like cracks or splits
- Root issues that increase the risk of uprooting
An expert evaluation ensures your trees are stable—and gives you peace of mind before the next storm rolls in.
2. Prune Strategically, Not Excessively
Proper pruning reduces wind resistance and removes weak or dangerous limbs. However, over-pruning—especially “topping” or “hurricane cutting”—can severely weaken your trees.
Best practices include:
- Removing dead, broken, or crossing branches
- Thinning out crowded canopies to improve airflow
- Avoiding drastic cuts that remove more than 25% of a tree’s canopy
Hiring professionals helps ensure pruning is done in a way that protects both your property and the long-term health of the tree.
3. Reinforce Young or Vulnerable Trees
Newly planted trees and those with shallow root systems are particularly vulnerable during storm season. Reinforcement techniques help them withstand high winds and shifting soil conditions.
Options include:
- Staking young trees properly—while allowing for some natural movement
- Adding mulch around the base to retain moisture and protect roots
- Checking that the root flare is above ground and not buried
These steps support root growth and reduce the chances of a tree tipping over during a storm.
4. Remove High-Risk Trees Before They Become a Problem
If a tree is dead, leaning, or has major structural defects, removal may be the safest option. Delaying action can put your home, vehicles, and even lives at risk.
Storm season is not the time to gamble with borderline trees. A professional arborist can help you determine whether removal is necessary—and do the job safely and legally.
5. Plan for Emergency Response and Post-Storm Care
Even with the best preparation, severe storms can still cause unexpected damage. That’s why it’s important to have a trusted team you can call for emergency response and follow-up care.
Joshua Tree Inc. provides:
- Rapid property inspections following storm events
- Safe removal of fallen limbs or entire trees
- Recovery services like fertilization and corrective pruning
These services are essential not only for safety but also to help your trees recover and continue to thrive in the seasons ahead.
Final Word: Be Proactive, Not Reactive
Storm season in Florida is predictable. Damage from poorly maintained trees doesn’t have to be.
By taking action early—before the wind picks up—you protect more than just your trees. You protect your property, your safety, and your long-term peace of mind.
Call Joshua Tree Inc. at (239) 888-6817 to schedule your pre-storm inspection or request expert guidance today.