It's November 1st, and while Florida is finally enjoying some cooler weather, hurricane season isn't over just yet. The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs through November 30th, which means there's still time for strong storms, heavy rain, and damaging winds.
Whether your property made it through the season untouched or your trees took a beating, now is an excellent time to check their health and prepare for whatever comes next.
1. Inspect Your Trees From the Ground
Take a walk around your property and look for potential warning signs:
- Dead, broken, or hanging branches
- Cracks or splits in trunks and major limbs
- Mushrooms or fungal growth near the base
- New leaning or exposed roots
- Large branches extending over your home or driveway
If something looks questionable, have a certified arborist evaluate it. Keep your distance from damaged or unstable trees.
2. Prune With Care
Proper pruning can improve a tree's structure and reduce the risk of falling limbs. However, excessive trimming, topping, or removing too many interior branches can weaken a tree.
Florida trees benefit from thoughtful, selective pruning rather than aggressive cutting. Have a qualified professional handle large limbs or potentially hazardous work.
3. Keep Your Property Storm-Ready
Even this late in hurricane season, a few simple precautions can make a difference:
- Secure loose outdoor furniture and decorations.
- Remove fallen branches and yard debris.
- Keep drainage areas clear of leaves and debris.
- Avoid digging, paving, or piling materials around tree roots.
- Schedule an inspection for trees showing signs of damage.
4. Plan Ahead for Next Hurricane Season
November is also a great time to start planning for next year. Addressing tree health concerns early gives you more time to make informed decisions before hurricane season returns in June.
Not sure if your trees are storm-ready? Phil Turner, ISA Certified Arborist, can help identify potential hazards and recommend the right care for your Florida property.
Don't wait for the next storm. Contact Phil Turner to schedule a professional tree assessment.