Weathering Hurricanes: Hurricane-Resistant TreEs Are Protecting Florida
Florida is known for its diverse cities, beautiful landscapes, and warm weather. However, the state also faces the threat of hurricanes. These powerful storms can cause severe damage to the properties through storm surge, strong winds, and heavy rainfall. Trees that are not built to resist these conditions can easily topple over leading to increase damages. Planting hurricane-resistant trees can act as a first line of defense to minimize damage to homes and properties.
What Are the Benefits of Hurricane-Resistant Trees?
Hurricane-resistant trees can help reduce debris and wind damage allowing for the safeguarding of homes. This is because they all have strong and deep root systems that anchor them firmly in place. According to the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Extension, planting hurricane-resistant trees can help in the prevention of erosion because of they have extensive root systems anchoring the soil in place [1]. Another benefit is their ability minimize power outages through the ability of these trees from entire trees falling on power lines [2].
Examples of Hurricane-Resistant Trees in Florida
Sand Live Oak
(
Quercus geminata)
Found throughout most of peninsular Florida, the Sand Live Oak is a slow-growing evergreen tree with a sprawling growth habit. Despite its slow growth, it reaches impressive heights of around 50 feet, providing excellent shade. [3] We have planted these along the Pinellas Trail!
Bald Cypress
(Taxodium distichum)
Sabal Palm
(Sabal palmetto)
The Sabal Palm is incredibly resilient to the threat of hurricanes due to its fibrous root system and flexible trunk. This state tree can weather most storms without significant damage. As a native palm, it is highly adapted to Florida’s climate, making it low-maintenance, tolerant of salt spray, disease-resistant, and drought-tolerant . This is also the Florida state tree! [5]
Gumbo Limbo
(Bursera simaruba)
The Gumbo Limbo is considered one of the most wind-tolerant trees. This attractive tree is an excellent choice for South Florida landscapes, though it is only hardy in zones 10B–11. We have planted these along the Pinellas Trail!
Tips for Planting Hurricane-Resistant Trees
Choose a tree that is well-suited for your landscape and is a wind-resistant species.
Ensure all planted trees are a safe distance from power lines and large structures.
Perform regular pruning and maintenance. Remove any branches or limbs that could easily break off before a strong storm or hurricane.
Consider planting groups of mixed, wind-resistant trees together to enhance wind resistance and protect your property.
Planting a hurricane-resistant tree is a great way to help protect your property from hurricanes. These deep-rooted trees can assist in defending against strong winds, erosion, and debris. Consider planting these resilient trees on your property for added storm protection.
REFERENCES:
[1] Carnevale, S. (2017, September 22). Hurricane Recovery: Wind-Resistant Trees for Home,. UF/IFAS Extension Polk Business, and Park Landscaping - UF/IFAS Extension Polk County . https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/polkco/2017/09/21/hurricane-recovery-wind-resistant-trees-for-home-business-and-park-landscaping/
[2] Duryea, M. L., & Kampf, E. (2007). Wind and Trees: Lessons Learned from Hurricanes. EDIS, 2007(20). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-fr173-2007
[3] Friedman, M. H., Andreu, M. G., Quintana, H. V., & McKenzie, M. (2010). Quercus geminata, Sand Live Oak. EDIS, 2010(4). https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-fr311-2010
[4] ENH-778/ST620: Taxodium distichum: Baldcypress. (2015). Ask IFAS - Powered by EDIS. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST620
[5] ENH-733/ST575: Sabal palmetto: Sabal or Cabbage Palm. (2024). Ask IFAS - Powered by EDIS. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST575
