Florida’s summer brings more than just sunshine and sea breezes—it ushers in hurricane season. For Sarasota homeowners, that means it’s time to give your landscape a little extra attention. The good news? With a simple, week-by-week plan, you can protect your plants and preserve your peace of mind.
Let’s walk through a proactive guide designed specifically for Sarasota’s unique subtropical climate and lush landscape needs.
6 Weeks Before Peak Storm Season: Light Pruning & Hazard Check
Late May to Early June is the perfect time to assess your landscape and make gentle, proactive cuts.
To-Do List:
- Inspect trees for weak limbs that could become airborne in high winds.
- Lightly prune trees and shrubs, focusing on dead or crossing branches. Avoid major pruning—it can stimulate new growth that’s vulnerable to wind.
- Check palm trees for any browning or damaged fronds. Remove only what’s dead.
- Secure loose landscape décor and tools in your yard.
Pro Tip: Don’t overdo it—heavy pruning can actually increase storm damage by destabilizing your plants.
4 Weeks Before: Stake and Support
By mid-June, start focusing on your younger or top-heavy plants.
To-Do List:
- Stake new or weak trees and shrubs, especially those planted in the last 12 months.
- Reinforce trellises and arbors. These structures can act like sails in strong winds.
- Inspect existing stakes and ties, replacing anything worn or broken.
Local Tip: Use biodegradable or flexible ties that won’t girdle trunks or branches. Sarasota’s frequent rains and humidity demand rot-resistant materials.
2 Weeks Before: Container Plants and Mulch Management
Now’s the time to get strategic about anything that can move.
To-Do List:
- Relocate potted plants to protected areas such as patios, garages, or covered lanais.
- Group containers together in wind-sheltered corners to reduce movement.
- Reduce mulch levels—thick mulch can be easily displaced. Keep it under 2 inches deep and away from structures.
Helpful Hint: Choose heavier ceramic or concrete planters for hurricane season—they’re less likely to tip.
1 Week Before: Final Shelter Measures
As forecasts start to sharpen, go into full preparation mode.
To-Do List:
- Trim back any low-hanging or overgrown foliage that could damage structures or power lines.
- Cover vulnerable plants (like tropicals) with breathable fabric or burlap—avoid plastic covers, which trap heat.
- Double-check drainage systems—clogged gutters or poorly placed downspouts can spell disaster for garden beds.
Don’t Forget: Alert neighbors to any shared tree maintenance concerns—community coordination can make a big difference in storm resilience.
During Storm Watch: Safety First
If a storm warning is issued:
- Secure all loose items—this includes garden décor, tools, and even lightweight seating.
- Turn off irrigation systems to avoid unnecessary waterlogging.
- Move remaining portable plants indoors or under shelter.
After the Storm: Assess and Recover
Once it’s safe:
- Inspect plants for damage, but wait a few days before pruning to avoid unnecessary stress.
- Check for leaning or uprooted trees, and consult a certified arborist for major work.
- Clean up slowly and mindfully—the landscape can recover, especially with some expert TLC.
🌿 Need Help Restoring Your Yard? Troy’s Tropics Is Here!
If your landscape has taken a hit after the storm, Troy’s Tropics can help you come back better than ever. While we don’t specialize in tree removal alone, we’re your go-to team for replacing damaged plants, revamping your layout, and creating stunning new designs tailored to Sarasota’s climate. Whether you’re looking to restore what was lost or seize the chance to reimagine your outdoor space, our team is ready to help you rebuild with beauty and purpose.
