S2 Ep1795: GARDENING in FLORIDA Hurricane Tree & Palm Prep Starts Now!

It's hard to believe that hurricane season is around the corner, but June 1 will soon be here. Theresa Badurek talks about how to prepare trees for hurricane season in Pinellas County. Badurek is an Urban Horticulture Agent/Master Gardener Program Leader and Certified Arborist FL-1307A for UF/IFAS Extension, Pinellas County.Prepare trees for hurricane season in Pinellas County by hiring a certified arborist to prune and thin canopies, removing dead or weak branches, and improving structure, ideally in late winter or early spring. Key actions include reducing wind resistance, clearing limbs 4-6 feet from roofs, and inspecting for decay. Pre-Season Tree Hardening (Months in Advance)  Professional Inspection: Hire an ISA certified arborist to evaluate tree stability and identify hazards. Structural Pruning: Thin the inner canopy to allow wind to pass through, reducing the sail effect. Remove Deadwood: Clear all dead, diseased, or damaged limbs that can become projectiles. Reduce Weight: Trim back overly long or heavy branches, especially those hanging over homes or power lines. Clear Rooflines: Maintain at least 4 to 6 feet of clearance between trees and structures. Avoid Topping: Never "top" a tree; this creates weak, dangerous growth and makes trees more hazardous in future storms.  Palm Tree Care  hurricane cut  only prune totally dead Do Not Over-prune: Avoid removing green fronds; only remove dead or brown fronds (hanging below 9 and 3 o'clock) to prevent weakening the tree. Spacing: Ensure palms are not crowded, as they handle winds better with adequate spacing.  Specific Tree and Site Precautions Secure Young Trees: Stake newly planted trees using 2x4s and straps for support. Monitor Ficus: Do not remove the aerial roots of Ficus trees, as these help support the tree. Check Soil: Ensure trees are not in confined, shallow soil, which limits root growth and stability.  As Storm Approaches Remove Loose Items: Remove or secure any potted plants, hanging baskets, or gardening tools that could be blown around. Do Not Prune Immediately Before: Avoid last-minute, heavy pruning, which stresses the tree just before high winds.  Ensure all contracted tree work is performed by licensed and insured professionals familiar with Pinellas County's specific tree species.#theresabaudurek #gardeninginpinellas #uf/ifaspinellascounty #nanettewiser #hurricanecuts #palmtree #treepruning #hurricaneseasonprep #stpete #stpetefl  #tampabay #radio #radiostpete #cityofstpete  #dtsp #downtownstpete