Preparing Your Broward County Yard for Storm Season
Hurricane season in South Florida starts June 1. High winds turn weak branches and unstable trees into serious threats. You must prioritize tree care to keep your property safe.
It is hard to know if a tree needs to be removed right away. Evaluating the health of your tree early gives you time to act. You should inspect your tree before the summer storms arrive.
You want to get a hazardous tree removed before the wind starts blowing.
The Hidden Risks of Ignoring Tree Health
A tree might look fine outside while hiding internal decay. When a major storm hits Broward County, a dead or dying tree often fails. Falling tree limbs can easily fall on a person or crush cars.
A hazardous tree can also take down power lines and destroy structures on your property. Waiting until a storm is named is too late to remove the tree. Tree service schedules fill up instantly.
Emergency storm damage cleanup costs significantly more than planned removal. You need to identify signs that a tree is failing now. Sometimes, a tree shows signs of failure right close to your house.
5 Signs Your Tree May Need Removal
1. Deep Cracks in the Trunk
Trunk cracks often show severe structural failure. If a crack extends deep into the trunk, the tree is damaged. A split trunk usually means the tree should be removed.
Sometimes, you will notice that the tree is hollow inside. This means signs of decay are spreading through parts of the tree. A hollow tree lacks the strength to survive high winds.
2. A Sudden or Severe Lean
Some trees naturally grow at an angle over time. But if a tree is leaning suddenly, the roots are failing. If the soil around the base of the tree is lifting, the tree is unstable.
A leaning tree may fall without warning. When tree roots can no longer support the tree, it becomes highly dangerous. It is likely to fall during the next major wind event. Any severe tree leaning requires immediate attention.
3. Fungal Growth at the Base
Mushrooms growing around the trunk indicate root rot. Fungus feeds on decaying wood and spreads quickly. A tree with a rotting base has no anchor and will easily fall.
This decay attracts unwanted pest activity that can kill your tree. If you see severe rot, a dead tree poses a massive risk. You will need to remove a tree with extensive fungal damage.
4. Large Dead Branches in the Canopy
Dead wood is brittle and breaks very easily. High winds will snap dead branches and turn them into heavy projectiles. If the upper canopy is mostly dead, the tree is dead.
A healthy tree will have flexible, green branches. If you notice a lack of leaves, it is a clear sign that your tree is failing. You must address dying trees before they cause harm.
5. Damaged or Severed Roots
Construction or plumbing work can cut vital roots. A tree relies entirely on its root system for stability. Without strong roots, hurricane winds will uproot the tree entirely.
Removing these trees is crucial for your safety. A compromised root system also puts nearby trees at risk. The need for removal becomes urgent when roots are destroyed.
What Our Arborists See in South Florida
After 25 years in Fort Lauderdale, our certified arborist team sees the same patterns. Homeowners often wonder if a tree can be saved. A tree care professional can perform a proper tree risk assessment.
We help you decide if it’s time to cut it down. A compromised tree always fails during a major hurricane. We recommend you consult a certified arborist in April or May.
Removing a dead tree before June is a predictable cost. When you hire an arborist early, you avoid the panic of hurricane season.
Act Before the Storm Arrives
You control how prepared your property is for hurricane season. Knowing when it’s time to remove a tree gives you an advantage. You can schedule professional tree removal before the rush begins.
Removal to protect your family is always the right choice. You should plan removal to avoid massive repair bills later. Do not wait for the wind to start blowing to take down a tree.
Quick Answers
How do I know if it’s time to remove your tree?
Look for deep cracks, fungus, or a severe lean. If you see these issues, you should call your local arborist. They will inspect the tree and recommend the next steps.
Can I handle DIY tree removal?
You should never attempt DIY tree removal on large trees. A tree professional has the right equipment and safety gear. Removing large trees requires specialized training and proper insurance.
What are the main reasons to remove a tree?
The top reasons to remove a tree include disease, structural tree damage, and storm risks. A tree may need removal if it threatens your home. You must remove trees that are completely dead. You may also need to remove a tree if it blocks new construction.
How much does a tree removal service cost?
Costs depend on the tree size, location, and access. Planned removals are always cheaper than emergency post-storm removals. A reliable tree removal service will provide a clear estimate upfront.
Can trees with multiple trunks survive a storm?
Trees with multiple trunks are often weaker at the base. High winds can split the trunks apart. An arborist can tell you if the tree needs support or removal.
Secure Your Property Before the Storm
Secure your property before the next storm hits. Discount Tree Service offers expert tree removal across Broward County.
Our experienced team can assess your yard and remove hazards. If a storm has already caused damage, we also provide 24/7 emergency tree services. Call us at (954) 289-2150.
Key Takeaways
- Inspect your trees before hurricane season begins on June 1.
- Look for deep trunk cracks that indicate structural weakness.
- Watch for a sudden leaning tree or lifting soil.
- Check for mushrooms or fungal rot near the roots.
- Identify and remove dead branches in the canopy.
- Remember that damaged roots make a tree highly unstable.
- Hire an arborist for safe and efficient tree removal.
- Schedule removal early to avoid emergency surge pricing.
- Ensure the health of your tree with regular inspections.
