Living in Orlando and the greater Central Florida area means enjoying year-preparing for storm season. From summer thunderstorms to the peak of hurricane season, high winds are a part of life here—and the trees in your yard play a big role in how your property weathers the storm.
With the right care, trees can protect your home. Without it, they can become dangerous. Luckily, a little preparation goes a long way. Here’s how to keep your trees—and your property—ready for whatever Florida skies throw your way.
Before the Storm: Prevention is Everything
The best time to prepare for hurricane season is on a sunny day in spring or early summer, before storms start rolling through. In Central Florida, that means getting your landscape in order well before August and September. Here’s how:
- Choose the right trees: Not every tree is built for Florida’s weather. Live oaks, southern magnolias, and bald cypresses do well here because of their strong structure and deep roots. Avoid fast-growing but brittle species (like laurel oaks) that often topple in storms.
- Plant with purpose: Space matters. Keep trees far enough from your roof and power lines to minimize damage but close enough to act as a wind buffer. Planting in groups helps trees stand stronger against tropical winds.
- Schedule regular care: Orlando’s mix of heavy rains and strong sun makes trees grow quickly—but fast growth can mean weak branches. Regular pruning and maintenance keep your trees healthy and resilient.
A Simple Pruning Guide
Pruning is one of the best ways to prepare your trees for Central Florida’s storm season. Here’s what locals should know:
- Time it right: The best time to prune most trees here is during the cooler, dormant months (late winter). But don’t wait until hurricane season is already underway.
- Cut smart: Remove dead or weak branches that could snap in a storm. Thin out crowded areas so high winds can pass through more easily.
- Don’t overdo it: Over-pruning leaves trees vulnerable to pests, disease, and stress. Stick to trimming less than 25% of the canopy each year.
After the Storm: What to Check
Florida storms are no joke, and even the healthiest trees can take damage. After it’s safe to step outside, walk your yard and look for:
- Hanging or broken branches that could fall later
- Splits or cracks in the trunk
- Large limbs leaning toward your home or driveway
If you spot serious damage, don’t try to tackle it yourself. Central Florida sees a lot of post-storm injuries from DIY tree work—leave the heavy lifting to a certified arborist.
When Tree Removal is the Best Option
Sometimes, a tree just can’t be saved. In Orlando and surrounding areas, it’s especially important to remove weak or hazardous trees before hurricane season ramps up. If removal is on the table:
- Don’t delay: High-risk trees are more likely to fall during storms, and waiting can cause bigger problems.
- Hire carefully: Look for certified, insured arborists with strong reputations in the Central Florida community.
- Plan ahead for the stump: Stumps can attract pests (like termites, which are common in Florida) and become tripping hazards. Grinding or removing them is usually the best choice.
Staying Storm-Ready in Central Florida
Life in Orlando means balancing sunshine and storm prep. With a little planning, routine care, and professional help when needed, your trees can stay strong and storm-ready year after year.
And when it’s time to call in the pros, Tree Work Now is here to help. As one of Central Florida’s trusted tree care companies, their certified arborists understand the unique challenges of our climate—from sudden summer downpours to full-force hurricane winds. With their expertise and top-notch service, you’ll feel confident knowing your home and family are safe, no matter what the forecast says.
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