As we head into peak hurricane season, August’s tip is all about prepping your landscaping to protect your property during a storm and to make post-storm clean-up a little easier.
Identify trees that may be vulnerable in storms
Look for trees that display any of these characteristics and consult with your landscaper to determine your options.
- Codominant limbs – trees with two large limbs that split in different directions…picture a Y or wishbone shape.
- Decay, rot, or large cavities
- Leaning trees
- Unhealthy roots
Trim and prune dead, broken, or damaged branches
You and your landscaper probably do a good job of keeping up with trimming and pruning, but it’s a good idea to do a walk about to be sure you haven’t missed anything. It’s especially important if you’ve been traveling away from the Keys to ask your caretaker or property manager to do a literal “sweep” of your property.
Assess your drainage situation
In a mild to moderate storm, having proper drainage can be the difference between flooding and staying dry and protected. Keep your drains clean both on your property and in the street in front of your property. If you know there’s a problem spot on your property, consult with a contractor to address the issue.