BLOG Storm-Ready Landscaping: How to Prepare Your Trees for Severe Weather Jul 29, 2025

When severe weather is on the horizon, safeguarding your home and property is likely your top priority. However, don't overlook the importance of preparing your landscape, particularly your trees, for the storm. At Lucky’s Tree Removal and Landscape Services, we understand that a strategic approach to tree care can substantially mitigate potential damage during intense weather events.

Understanding how to prepare your trees for severe weather involves more than just hoping for the best. It requires proactive planning and care. The first step towards storm-ready landscaping is regular tree inspections. Identifying potential hazards before a storm can save you a lot of trouble and cost. Look for signs of decay, which might include mushrooms or fungi at the base of the tree, indicating an underlying problem. Cracks in the trunk or major limbs should be addressed immediately by a professional.

Pruning is another essential part of making your landscape storm-ready. By removing dead or weak branches, you reduce the likelihood of them breaking off during a storm and causing damage. A well-pruned tree is less prone to wind damage because it allows for better air movement through the canopy, decreasing wind resistance.

In addition to regular pruning, consider cabling and bracing as methods to support weak branches. These techniques involve installing flexible steel cables and braces to help support the weight of the branches and reduce stress during storms. Consulting with tree service professionals like Lucky's can ensure these methods are done correctly and effectively.

Moreover, young trees require special attention during extreme weather. Secure your saplings with stakes to help them withstand strong winds. Proper staking can provide the needed support without impeding the tree’s natural growth. Make sure the staking material is loosely tied, allowing the tree some movement, which helps strengthen its root system over time.

Ensuring that your trees are properly nourished is another critical factor in preparing for severe weather. Encouraging deep root growth with adequate watering (especially in dry spells leading up to storm season) and applying mulch can conserve moisture and maintain soil temperature. Healthy trees are more resilient and better equipped to endure the stresses brought about by harsh weather.

Additionally, assess the entire landscape, including shrubs and surrounding structures, because these can influence how wind moves around your property. Proper landscaping techniques can redirect or buffer strong winds, shielding your trees in the process. Consider windbreaks, such as other plantings or even fences, to serve as a first line of defense against high winds.

In conclusion, preparing your trees for severe weather is a multifaceted task that combines vigilance, expertise, and proactive maintenance. By systematically inspecting, pruning, supporting, and nourishing your trees, you lay the groundwork for a landscape that's more resilient to storms. Relying on professional services like Lucky's Tree Removal and Landscape Services ensures you're taking the most effective steps to protect your property.

Remember, the time spent on preparing your trees for severe weather is a worthwhile investment towards minimizing hazards and preserving the beauty of your landscape. It's about being proactive today, to prevent costly issues tomorrow. Reach out to us for more personalized advice and solutions tailored to your specific landscape needs. Keep your surroundings safe and your trees healthy by being storm-ready.