The average hurricane season produces a dozen named storms, with an average of six becoming hurricanes. Of that number, about three become major hurricanes. Years may pass between the worst of the storms, but preparing for the worst is a necessity for Florida residents.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts the probability of the dangerous storms each year, but an exceptionally active season and early tropical storms can always form. South Florida residents should be performing their annual pre-hurricane yard prep no matter what the prediction. Broken glass, toys, and tree limbs can become deadly projectiles in hurricane winds.

Garages and Outbuildings – Everyone works to secure their home, but they also need to ensure that garages, sheds, and other outbuildings are securely locked, anchored, and protected.

Gutters and Shingles – Gutters and downspouts need to be clean to facilitate drainage. It’s also essential to ensure that tiles/shingles, gutters and downspouts are securely attached to homes and outbuildings.

Irrigation Systems – Always turn irrigation off in advance of a hurricane. The potential for a broken pipe exists and if that happens, it will simply add to flooding problems.

Lawn Items – Secure lawn furniture, toys, tools, and decorations in a garage or storage building. Anything that can’t be moved should be securely tied down.

Plantings – Shoring up bushes and other plantings will help them weather the storm. Don’t hesitate to call in a professional landscaper for assistance. Whenever possible, remove trellises on which vines are growing or at least secure them to the ground. Individuals should harvest any produce from their fruit trees or vegetable gardens if they don’t want to lose it in the hurricane.

Potted Plants – Don’t leave potted plants outside. Bring them in the house, or at the very least place them in the garage or an outbuilding.

Storm Drains – Make sure they’re free of debris to aid in drainage once the storm arrives.

Trees and Coconuts – All trees should be inspected by a professional for dead or damaged limbs early in the season. They should be trimmed or removed accordingly. Stake young or newly planted trees to provide support during the storm. Palms don’t need trimming, but coconuts should be removed prior to a hurricane.

Windows – Board up windows in the home, garage, sheds, and other buildings to minimize breaking glass.

RCH Landscaping is a full service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install, and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians have an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

Hurricane season officially begins in June and it’s incumbent upon every homeowner to prepare their garden for a worst-case scenario. Everyone should begin by performing an inspection of their property to check for dead and damaged tree limbs that can result in significant damage to houses and outbuildings.

Trees

Dead trees should be removed and don’t forget to check for shrubs that may be loosely rooted. If you have palm trees in your yard, don’t trim them or remove the fronds unless the fronds are already dead to avoid weakening the tree. You’ll also want to remove any large seeds or coconuts.

Drainage

Drainage is always a problem from rain, even if a hurricane doesn’t make landfall. Make sure your storm drains are clear of debris. Check gutters and downspouts, clear them of debris, and ensure that they’re securely attached to the structure. If there are any loose shingles or tiles on the home or garage, have them repaired. Don’t drain your pool, as it can result in structural damage from the storm.

Yard Items

When you know a hurricane is coming, be sure to remove and store anything in the yard that could become loose, blow away, and become a projectile. That includes doghouses, wind chimes, lawn ornaments, BBQs and fire pits, lawn furniture, and playhouses. If an item can’t be stored inside, use tie downs.

Power off

Turn your sprinkler systems off to avoid the potential of adding more water to a landscape that will already be soaked and loosen root systems of trees. Plan ahead when creating a garden and landscape environment by installing plants that have a dense root system.

Turn off the power. Downed lines can cause dangerous electrical surges that can damage any device from water heaters to air conditioners. A power surge can also cause serious and costly damage to breaker boxes and even start a fire.

Be prepared

Download a reliable weather app to mobile devices to stay informed. Remember that cell towers are often damaged or downed in a hurricane and communication may be difficult. Most importantly, be safe. Personal possessions can always be replaced and gardens replanted.

RCH Landscaping is a full service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install, and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians have an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760