Lake County frequently feels the impact of storms, making it crucial for residents to prepare for hurricanes. Following Hurricane Milton, effectively restoring your yard is vital for maintaining a healthy landscape that can withstand future storms. Here are some practical tips to help you recover and safeguard your property and landscape.
- Remove yard waste safely:
- Read manuals: Before using any equipment, read the manuals.
- Wear PPE: Use appropriate personal protective equipment.
- Don’t work alone: Always have someone with you.
- Avoid heavy lifting: Be cautious with heavy items.
- Know when to hire a professional:
If your trees are severely damaged, leaning dangerously, or threatening property, it’s time to call in a professional. Hire a certified arborist for:
- Large leaning trees
- Broken limbs
- Trees that are hard to reach
- Proper pruning practices to keep your trees healthy
- Assess your trees:
Old trees with undamaged trunks and roots can be restored. Young trees are easier to recover; stake them back, adjust roots and ensure they maintain humidity, add soil if needed and remove stakes once stable.
- Pruning techniques after the storm:
- Strengthen tree structure: Use proper pruning techniques to build a strong structure.
- Palms: Remove hanging or dead fronds that could cause harm or hinder growth. Leave green broken fronds for energy. Avoid excessive pruning.
- Pines: Remove hanging branches and completely brown ones. Yellow branches may recover.
- Preventive tips for future storms:
- Regular pruning: Build a strong tree structure with one dominant trunk and balanced canopy.
- Select appropriate locations: Place trees properly to prevent damage. Avoid planting tall trees near power lines or structures.
- Choosing the right plant for the right place:
Selecting the suitable plant species for your yard is crucial, especially in a hurricane-prone area like Lake County. Consider the tree’s growth habits, size, and resilience against storms. Moreover, Researching and understanding the specific needs of each tree will help you create a landscape that not only thrives but also minimizes future storm damage.
Following these tips will ensure a successful restoration of your landscape. Thoughtful planning, proper tree selection, and regular maintenance are crucial to creating a resilient landscape that can withstand future storms.
Finally, if you have specific questions about how to recover your yard after Hurricane Milton, please contact your UF/IFAS Lake County Residencial Horticulture Agent Maria Bautista mquiricobautista@ufl.edu and if you need more information about Disaster Preparation and Recovery visit: https://disaster.ifas.ufl.edu/
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