Hurricane Season: Preparing Your Property For A Hurricane

As we live and work in Florida, we are obviously big fans of the tropical climate and year-round sunny weather. The climate is a prime environment for landscaping, which we make our living maintaining. However, another important factor to consider when performing landscape maintenance in Florida, is that the tropical climate also produces tropical storms. Sometimes, these storms can turn into hurricanes, and wreak havoc on local landscapes. It is important to know how to protect your property in case of a hurricane event, as you do not want to lose the investment of time and money you have put into your landscape. In this blog, we are going to focus on your lawn and trees, as they are most susceptible to damage. Additionally, we will provide some general tips and tricks for hurricane preparation and property protection.

Trees: Planting and Pruning

For newer landscapers, it is important to consider the tropical climate of your location when planting new trees. Planting away from your structure, power lines, and other amenities, reduces safety risks when a storm comes around. One of the primary ways in which property is damaged during a hurricane, is when decayed or dead tree limbs come flying off. This brings our second point into play, pruning. Another way to reduce the risk of tree damage during a storm is by having your trees pruned routinely, promoting healthy growth, and preventing loose limbs from sticking around. Planting trees in groups also promotes group wind resistance, and takes the strain off of individual trees.

Lawn Essentials: Property Clean Up

Another way in which you must prepare your property is by cleaning up all the potentially loose materials strewn about your lawn. Whether commercial or residential, it is more than likely that you have some potted plants, debris, or outdoor furniture that need to be brought inside if possible in preparation for a hurricane. This will mitigate the risks of loose objects flying about, which can shatter glass, harm individuals, and tear up your lawn.

Ensure Proper Drainage Practices

First and foremost, your lawn needs to be mowed. The thicker your turf, the tougher time your lawn will have draining excess water, and sitting water is not good for your turf. Additionally, you will need to check and potentially clean your rain gutters, as well as remove any debris from existing drainage systems. Your irrigation system should also be turned off since there will be more than enough water for your turf.

Plan Ahead: Check the Weather!

The best way to be prepared for inclement weather is to be aware of its existence. Keep an eye out for weather alerts, and the news coming directly from trusted news sources. When you hear that a storm is coming, you should get in contact with your landscape provider to formulate a tailored plan for your property. If Alexander’s is your landscape maintenance provider, our account managers will help you ensure the safety of your landscape material, and provide consultation on future clean up. The sooner you get your property back up and running after a storm, the sooner your revenue can continue to flow in.

Alexander’s Property Maintenance is a full-service commercial landscape company serving commercial properties in West Central Florida. We focus on quality, consistency, and reliability for all our clients. We do it right the first time. Check out our website to see what we have to offer or to contact us for an estimate. Give us a call at the number listed on our website most relevant to your location to start preparation for a hurricane.