Landscape Hurricane Information
- Choosing Quality Trees
- Pruning Issues
Choosing Quality Trees
Since our area received extensive tree damage as a result of Hurricanes Ivan and Dennis, many homeowners may be hesitant to plant large trees in their landscape. It is important, however, to consider the addition of trees to the landscapes to replace the many that were lost. By selecting appropriate species and installing structurally sound trees, we can reduce the incidence of tree damage from future storms.
Unfortunately, there has been an abundance of poor quality trees available to homeowners. These include trees with more than one central leader, trees with poorly spaced branches, and trees with weak stem attachments due to embedded bark in the branch crotches. Many times homeowners select these trees because they have a fuller canopy and more branches. As these trees mature, they become serious hazards and are more prone to breakage during storms.
Homeowners that select a large shade tree for their landscape should look for quality trees with strong wood. Although some may be slower growing, they will be more likely to withstand harsh weather.
Poor Tree Characteristics for Large Shade Trees
Co-dominant stems - As the tree below matures, it will become a hazard due to it's potential to split because of the two competing leaders.
Imbedded wood results in a weak branch to trunk connection and a hazard tree. It does not take a storm to see a tree break due to weak branch connections. The tree below had imbedded wood resulting in a failure of a large branch. Hire a certified arborist to evaluate your trees and manage the problems before there is an accident.
Good Tree Characteristics - Large Shade Trees
Look for a central leader and strong connections of side branches. Lateral branches should be less than 2/3 the diameter of the main trunk.
