Hurricane Season and Your Trees: Preparing Your Landscape for Storms

​Hurricanes are a common threat in Baton Rouge, bringing strong winds and heavy rains that can severely damage trees and landscapes. Proactive tree care before storm season can minimize risks, protect your property, and reduce cleanup costs. In this guide, we’ll cover how to assess and prepare your trees for hurricane season to keep your landscape safe and resilient.

Assessing Tree Health Before Hurricane Season

Before a storm hits, it’s important to evaluate the condition of your trees to identify potential hazards.
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Look for Weak or Dead Branches

• Weak, dead, or broken branches are more likely to break off during high winds.
• Regularly inspect your trees and remove unstable limbs to reduce potential damage.

Check for Structural Defects

• Trees with multiple trunks or weak branch unions are more susceptible to splitting.
• Leaning trees may indicate root damage or instability and should be assessed by a professional.

Inspect for Disease or Decay

• Trees affected by rot, fungus, or insect infestations are more likely to fall during storms.
• Addressing disease and pest issues before hurricane season strengthens tree resilience.

Proper Tree Maintenance to Minimize Storm Damage

Routine tree maintenance is key to reducing storm-related damage.
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Regular Pruning

• Trimming trees properly can reduce wind resistance and prevent overgrowth.
• Removing excess branches ensures trees are less likely to break under high winds.

Deep Root Watering & Mulching

• Strong roots help trees stay anchored during storms.
• Applying mulch around tree bases improves soil moisture and root stability.

Bracing and Cabling

• Weak trunks and heavy branches can benefit from structural support.
• Professional bracing and cabling can reinforce vulnerable trees, reducing breakage risk.

Choosing Hurricane-Resistant Trees for Your Landscape

Some tree species are better equipped to withstand hurricanes than others.

​Best Wind-Resistant Tree Species

• Live Oak – Strong, deep-rooted, and highly wind-resistant.
• Bald Cypress – Flexible, flood-tolerant, and resilient in storm conditions.
• Southern Magnolia – Dense wood and strong structure make it more durable.

Avoid Trees Prone to Storm Damage

• Water Oaks – Weak wood and shallow roots make them highly susceptible to storm damage.
• Pines – Tall and brittle, prone to snapping in strong winds.
• Shallow-Rooted Species – Trees with weak root systems can easily topple over in storms.

Spacing and Placement Strategies

• Avoid planting trees too close to power lines, structures, or driveways.
• Space trees properly to allow for strong root development and wind flow resistance.

What to Do With Trees After a Hurricane

Once the storm has passed, evaluating tree damage is crucial for safety and recovery.

Assess Tree Damage

• Look for hanging branches, split trunks, and exposed roots.
• Trees leaning significantly may pose a risk and need immediate attention.

Remove Hazardous Trees Safely

• If a tree is at risk of falling, consult a professional for safe removal.
• Avoid handling large fallen limbs or uprooted trees on your own.

Tree Recovery Tips

• Proper watering, mulching, and pruning can help stressed trees recover.
• Monitor tree health for signs of delayed damage in the weeks following the storm.

Get Prepared For Storm Season
Preparing your trees before hurricane season can protect your landscape and property from severe damage. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and choosing storm-resistant tree species can make a significant difference. If you need assistance with tree preparation or post-storm care, contact a professional tree service to ensure your trees remain strong and resilient year-round.