Plant Trees to Minimize Storm Damage

[FamTimes reporter Jennylyn Gianan] For Florida residents, the simple act of planting trees in the right places is the most important thing they can do to prepare for hurricane season.

First, however, there must be enough space for the trees to take root and grow.

Constricted or damaged roots can cause trees to topple in strong winds.

A tree’s size and shape, soil quality, location, and surrounding environment are important to growing it successfully.

As a general rule, a 10-by-10-foot area of soil is needed for a tree that will grow to no more than 30 feet tall.

A medium-sized tree that will grow to no more than 50 feet tall requires 20 by 20 feet of open space, while a large tree requires an area of 30 by 30 feet.

When planting near or beneath power lines or close to structures, it is best to choose small or medium-sized trees.

Trees should be planted at least 15 feet away from the house.

Wind-resistant trees include cabbage palms, live oaks, spindle palms, hollies, Chinese olive trees, palms, pigeon plums, triangle palms, the plant known in Korean as “gasisolnamul,” Geiger trees, and larches.

These trees are also good landscaping choices for areas along Florida’s east coast.

According to new research, properly pruned trees are less likely to have their trunks bend in strong winds.

Pruning to improve wind resistance is best left to a certified professional arborist.

Jennylyn Gianan fam1@pcss.co.kr