Living in beautiful Sarasota County means we enjoy lush gardens year-round—but it also means preparing our landscapes for hurricane season. For those who love container gardening, storm prep presents a unique challenge: do you bring those pots indoors, or can you secure them safely outside?
Let’s break it down so your garden can thrive—and survive—the next big blow.
Why Container Gardens Need Special Attention
Container gardens are versatile, space-saving, and perfect for patios, lanais, and pool decks. But when winds pick up, even a medium-sized pot can become a projectile or suffer serious damage.
Unlike rooted plants, containers are mobile—both a blessing and a risk. If not handled properly before a storm, they can damage property, crack, or uproot delicate plants.
Option 1: Move It Indoors
Best for: Lightweight pots, tropicals, and delicate plants
When in doubt, moving your container garden inside—like into a garage, lanai, or covered porch—is your safest bet. This protects both the plant and the pot from wind and debris.
Tips for moving containers:
- Water lightly a day before to reduce weight without dehydrating the plant.
- Use a dolly or plant caddy to prevent injury.
- Group smaller containers together for ease and stability.
Be mindful of indoor lighting. If plants will stay inside for more than a couple of days, try to keep them near a window to avoid stress.
Option 2: Secure It Outdoors
Best for: Heavier pots, established shrubs, or hard-to-move containers
Some pots are too heavy—or too large—to bring inside. In those cases, secure them tightly to prevent tipping or shifting.
Outdoor securing options:
- Tuck containers in corners or against walls to reduce wind exposure.
- Use bungee cords, garden anchors, or tie-down straps to fasten pots to railings or deck posts.
- Remove any saucers, trellises, or decorative stakes that could become airborne.
For vertical gardens or stacked containers, disassemble them before the storm and lay components flat.
What NOT to Do
- Don’t leave pots on ledges or balcony rails.
- Don’t rely on just weight; even heavy pots can slide or tip.
- Don’t wait until the last minute—prepare 48 hours in advance.
After the Storm: Recovery Tips
Once the weather clears, inspect each container for:
- Cracks in ceramic or clay pots
- Signs of root damage or windburn
- Water saturation or drainage issues from excess rain
Refresh mulch, trim back any damaged foliage, and relocate your plants back to their preferred spots once it’s safe.
A Little Prep Goes a Long Way
Container gardens add beauty and flexibility to any Florida landscape, especially here in Sarasota. With a bit of thoughtful preparation, your potted plants can weather hurricane season without a hitch.
Need help storm-proofing your landscape or choosing sturdy containers for your Florida-friendly garden? Visit Troy’s Tropics in Sarasota—we’re always happy to help.
