How to Identify Trees That Won’t Survive Hurricane Season: A Broward County Homeowner’s Guide

Living in Broward County means embracing the beauty of our lush tree canopy – but also accepting the responsibility of hurricane preparedness. As a homeowner, you’ve likely wondered: “Which trees on my property might not make it through the next strong winds of hurricane season?” This question isn’t just about protecting your property; it’s about ensuring the safety of your family and neighbors.

At Discount Tree Service, we’ve helped thousands of Broward County residents identify and address vulnerable trees before they become storm casualties. With over 25 years of experience serving Fort Lauderdale and surrounding communities, we’ve developed a systematic approach to tree risk assessment that can help you spot potential problems before hurricane-force winds arrive.

Understanding Tree Failure: How Trees Fall During Storms

Before identifying vulnerable trees, it’s important to understand the three primary ways trees fail during hurricanes and high wind events:

1. Uprooting (Wind Throw)

This occurs when the entire tree topples over, roots and all. In Broward County’s sandy soils, this is particularly common after heavy storms saturate the ground, weakening the root system’s anchoring ability. Shallow-rooted species like ficus trees are especially prone to this failure mode. When a tree uproots, it can fall onto your house, power lines, or other structures, causing significant property damage.

2. Trunk Snap

When hurricane-force winds create enough force to break the main trunk, usually at a point of weakness such as a decay pocket or previous injury. This failure type is often catastrophic and provides few warning signs without close inspection. Pine trees are particularly susceptible to trunk snap during high wind events due to their relatively brittle wood.

3. Major Branch Failure

Large limbs break away from the main trunk, which can cause significant storm damage while leaving the tree standing. This breakage is common in trees with poor branch attachments or those that haven’t been properly maintained. Weak branches can become dangerous projectiles during a hurricane, threatening both structures and people.

According to the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), trees that are properly pruned to allow wind to pass through the canopy are less likely to topple during storms. Their research shows that maintaining proper tree care practices significantly reduces the risk of catastrophic failure during tropical storms and hurricanes.

7 Warning Signs Your Tree May Not Survive Hurricane Season

Based on our extensive experience with tree removal in Fort Lauderdale and throughout Broward County, these are the critical warning signs that a tree may fail during hurricane conditions:

1. Leaning Trunk (Beyond 15 Degrees)

While some trees naturally grow at slight angles, a sudden lean or one exceeding 15 degrees from vertical indicates root problems. Measure by holding a level against the trunk and using a protractor to determine the angle. Pay special attention to trees that have developed a lean following recent construction, landscape changes, or previous storms.

Trees that lean significantly are more vulnerable to high wind and may topple completely during a hurricane. This is especially true for larger trees, where the weight and leverage can accelerate failure.

Warning Level: Severe – Trees with new or significant leans should be evaluated by a professional immediately.

2. Visible Root Problems

Look for these telltale signs of compromised root systems:

• Soil heaving or cracking around the base
• Exposed roots that appear damaged, decayed, or severed
• Mushrooms or fungal growth on roots or surrounding soil
• Recent construction, trenching, or grade changes within the tree’s root zone

A healthy root system is crucial for trees to withstand hurricane-force winds. When roots won’t function properly, even seemingly healthy trees can topple unexpectedly during a storm.

Warning Level: Severe – Root system integrity directly correlates to a tree’s stability during high winds.

3. Multiple Trunk Cracks or Seams

Vertical cracks, especially those extending deep into the wood, indicate structural weakness. Be particularly concerned about:

• Cracks that extend through the bark into the wood
• Multiple cracks on different sides of the trunk
• Cracks accompanied by bulging or unusual trunk shape
• Seams where the tree has attempted to heal previous damage

These are clear signs of decay that compromise a tree’s ability to withstand strong winds during hurricane season.

Warning Level: High – Trunk integrity is critical for withstanding hurricane-force winds.

4. V-Shaped Branch Unions

Branches that join the trunk at sharp, V-shaped angles are significantly more prone to splitting during storms than those with U-shaped unions. This is especially problematic when these branches are large or extend over structures. During high wind events, these weak branches often fail first.

Wind-resistant trees typically feature stronger branch attachments that can better withstand the stress of hurricane-force winds.

Warning Level: Moderate to High – Depends on the size of the affected branches and what lies beneath them.

5. Canopy Dieback (More Than 25%)

When more than a quarter of a tree’s canopy consists of dead branches, it signals underlying health issues that compromise storm resilience. Look for:

• Large sections of leafless branches during growing season
• Thinning foliage compared to similar trees
• Branches that fail to produce leaves in spring

A sparse canopy may indicate that trees need additional care or that they’re suffering from disease that makes them vulnerable during hurricane season.

Warning Level: Moderate – While not always an immediate structural concern, extensive dieback indicates declining health and reduced storm resilience.

6. Decay and Cavities

Hollow areas or soft, punky wood compromise a tree’s structural integrity. Check for:

• Openings in the trunk or major branches
• Soft, crumbly, or discolored wood
• Mushrooms or conks growing on the trunk or root flare
• Areas where bark is missing and the wood appears discolored

Signs of decay significantly increase the likelihood of breakage during high wind events.

Warning Level: Moderate to Severe – Depends on the extent and location of decay. As a general rule, trees with more than 30% of their trunk diameter compromised by decay are at high risk of failure.

7. Previous Failure History

Trees that have already lost major limbs or show evidence of past structural failure are statistically more likely to experience additional failures. This includes:

• Large, broken stubs from previous branch failures
• Evidence of earlier trunk splits that have been repaired or grown over
• Trees that have been topped or improperly pruned

The aftermath of hurricane damage often reveals that trees with previous failures are most likely to experience catastrophic damage in subsequent storms.

Warning Level: Moderate to High – Trees with a history of structural failure typically have underlying issues that will continue to cause problems.

Species-Specific Vulnerabilities: Know Your Trees

In Broward County, certain tree species consistently demonstrate higher failure rates during hurricanes. Based on data from past storms, here’s what you should know about common local species:

Trees to Avoid: High-Risk Species

Ficus Trees (Ficus benjamina)

Despite their popularity, ficus trees present significant hurricane hazards due to:

• Extremely shallow root systems that easily uproot
• Dense canopies that catch wind like sails
• Brittle wood prone to sudden breakage
• Aggressive roots that can destabilize nearby structures

Failure Mode: Primarily uprooting, but also prone to major branch failures.

Australian Pine (Casuarina equisetifolia)

These non-native trees are particularly problematic during storms because of:

• Shallow root systems unsuited to hurricane-force winds
• Extremely tall, slender growth habit
• Brittle wood that snaps under pressure
• Poor compartmentalization after injury

Failure Mode: Primarily trunk snap and uprooting.

Queen Palms (Syagrus romanzoffiana)

While many palm species are hurricane-resistant, queen palms are exceptions due to:

• Narrow trunk base relative to height
• Limited root ball that provides inadequate anchoring
• Susceptibility to fatal bending during strong winds

Failure Mode: Primarily trunk snap or fatal bending.

Other Vulnerable Species

• Sand pine (Pinus clausa)
• Tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)
• Silver birch (Betula pendula)
• Laurel oak (Quercus laurifolia)

Moderate-Risk Species

Royal Poinciana (Delonix regia)

These beautiful flowering trees have structural limitations:

• Wide, spreading canopies that catch significant wind
• Relatively weak branch attachments
• Shallow root systems in our sandy soils

Failure Mode: Primarily branch failure, occasionally uprooting.

Hurricane-Resistant Trees for South Florida

Planting trees that can withstand hurricane-force winds is essential for South Florida homeowners. According to UF/IFAS, native trees are often better than non-native species at surviving our intense storm seasons.

Wind-Resistant Trees for Your Garden

Live Oaks (Quercus virginiana)

These native trees demonstrate excellent hurricane resistance due to:

• Deep, widespread root systems
• Strong, decay-resistant wood
• Low center of gravity with sprawling growth habit
• Excellent compartmentalization of wounds

Live oaks are consistently rated among the most wind-resistant trees for South Florida landscapes.

Failure Mode: When failures occur, typically limited to branch damage.

Gumbo Limbo (Bursera simaruba)

These native trees have evolved to withstand tropical storms through:

• Flexible wood that bends rather than breaks
• Strong root systems adapted to South Florida conditions
• Excellent regenerative capabilities after damage

Failure Mode: Rarely experiences catastrophic failure; may lose branches but typically survives.

Sabal Palm (Sabal palmetto)

Florida’s state tree is remarkably hurricane-resistant:

• Flexible trunk that can bend substantially without breaking
• Fibrous root system that provides excellent anchoring
• Ability to lose fronds during high winds without fatal damage

Failure Mode: Extremely resistant to failure; occasionally leans after severe storms but rarely topples.

Dahoon Holly (Ilex cassine)

This native holly makes an excellent wind-resistant addition to the landscape:

• Dense, compact growth habit
• Strong central leader
• Flexible branches that resist breakage

Failure Mode: Minimal damage even in strong hurricane-force winds.

The right tree in the right place is critical for hurricane resistance. When planting trees, consider mature size, growth habit, and placement away from your home, walkways, and power lines to minimize potential damage during storms.

The DIY Tree Assessment Checklist

Use this systematic checklist to evaluate trees on your property before hurricane season intensifies. For each tree, assign points based on the condition observed. Higher scores indicate greater vulnerability to high wind events.

Step 1: Basic Tree Information

• Species: ________________ (Refer to species risk level above)
• Approximate height: ________ feet
• Approximate diameter: ________ inches (measured at chest height)
• Distance to nearest structure: ________ feet
• What would be impacted if this tree fell? ________________

Step 2: Risk Factor Assessment

Lean Factor (0-10 points)

• 0 points: No lean, tree is vertical
• 3 points: Slight lean (less than 5 degrees)
• 5 points: Moderate lean (5-15 degrees)
• 10 points: Severe lean (more than 15 degrees or recently developed)

Root Condition (0-10 points)

• 0 points: No visible root problems
• 3 points: Minor exposed or damaged roots
• 5 points: Moderate root damage or soil heaving
• 10 points: Severe root damage, extensive fungal growth, or recent construction impact

Trunk Condition (0-10 points)

• 0 points: Solid trunk with no visible defects
• 3 points: Minor cracks or healed wounds
• 5 points: Significant cracks, seams, or small cavities
• 10 points: Major cracks, large cavities, or extensive decay

Branch Structure (0-10 points)

• 0 points: Strong U-shaped branch attachments, balanced canopy
• 3 points: Some V-shaped attachments, generally good structure
• 5 points: Multiple V-shaped attachments or unbalanced crown
• 10 points: Predominantly weak attachments, previously failed branches

Canopy Health (0-10 points)

• 0 points: Full, healthy canopy
• 3 points: Minor dieback (less than 10%)
• 5 points: Moderate dieback (10-25%)
• 10 points: Severe dieback (more than 25%)

Site Conditions (0-10 points)

• 0 points: Protected location, good soil volume
• 3 points: Somewhat exposed location
• 5 points: Exposed location or restricted root zone
• 10 points: Highly exposed location (coastal, hilltop) or severely restricted roots

Previous Maintenance (0-10 points)

• 0 points: Properly maintained with good structure
• 3 points: Some improper pruning or neglect
• 5 points: Evidence of topping or significant improper pruning
• 10 points: Severely topped or improperly pruned

Step 3: Calculate Risk Score and Interpret Results

Total all points from Step 2:

• 0-10 points: Low risk – Monitor annually and after major storms
• 11-20 points: Moderate risk – Consider preventative pruning and more frequent monitoring
• 21-30 points: High risk – Professional assessment recommended before hurricane season
• 31+ points: Severe risk – Immediate professional evaluation needed; consider removal or significant mitigation

Preventative Measures to Strengthen Your Trees

Taking proactive steps can help your trees better withstand hurricane-force winds. Here are key preventative measures recommended by arborists and the University of Florida:

Proper Pruning Techniques

Regular, professional pruning helps trees develop stronger structures that can withstand high winds. Proper pruning:

• Removes dead, diseased, or weak branches before they can break
• Thins the canopy to reduce wind resistance
• Eliminates crossing branches that can damage each other during storms
• Maintains the tree’s natural shape while improving structural integrity

Young trees need proper structural pruning to develop strong branch attachments that will serve them well as they mature. For established trees, maintenance pruning helps keep your trees healthy and reduces the risk of failure during storms.

Avoid “hurricane cuts” or excessive thinning of palm trees, as this actually weakens them. Palms should only have dead or browning fronds removed, as green fronds provide essential nutrients.

Soil and Root Care

Healthy soil promotes strong root development, which is essential for wind resistance:

• Apply mulch properly (2-4 inches deep, not touching the trunk) to improve soil health
• Avoid overwatering, which can lead to shallow root systems
• Don’t add excessive fertilizer, which can stimulate weak, rapid growth
• Protect roots from damage during construction or landscape changes

Supporting Young Trees

Newly planted trees need time to establish root systems that can withstand strong winds:

• Stake young trees properly for their first year, but remove stakes once established to allow natural strengthening
• Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth
• Plant the right tree in the right place, considering mature size and site conditions

Remember that trees planted in groups tend to be more wind-resistant than solitary specimens, as they protect each other from the full force of hurricane-force winds.

When to Call a Professional

While this guide helps identify potential problems, certain situations warrant immediate professional attention from our certified arborists at Discount Tree Service:

Call Immediately If:

• Your tree scores above 30 points on the assessment checklist
• You notice a sudden lean developing in any tree
• Large sections of bark are missing or falling off
• You see large cracks in the trunk or major branches
• Mushrooms or conks are growing from the trunk or root flare
• The tree has been struck by lightning
• You’re concerned about trees near power lines (never attempt to assess or prune these yourself)

Professional Assessment Benefits:

• Specialized tools to detect internal decay not visible from outside
• Expert knowledge of local species and their typical failure patterns
• Ability to recommend appropriate mitigation strategies beyond removal
• Understanding of local permit requirements for tree work
• Experience with post-storm recovery and risk reduction

Our emergency tree service team is available 24/7 for urgent situations, but the best approach is preventative assessment before storm season intensifies.

A certified arborist can provide valuable insights about your trees’ health and structural integrity. They’re trained to spot signs of decay and weakness that might not be obvious to homeowners. In South Florida’s humid climate, where decay can progress rapidly, professional assessment is particularly valuable.

Post-Assessment Action Plan

After identifying vulnerable trees, consider these options based on risk level:

For Low-Risk Trees (0-10 points):

• Schedule routine maintenance pruning to remove dead wood
• Monitor annually and after significant storms
• Consider preventative measures like proper mulching and fertilization to strengthen trees

For Moderate-Risk Trees (11-20 points):

• Consult with a certified arborist about structural pruning options
• Consider cable or brace installations for valuable trees with correctable defects
• Increase monitoring frequency, especially before and after storm season

For High-Risk Trees (21-30 points):

• Schedule a professional assessment to determine if mitigation is possible
• Consider significant crown reduction if appropriate for the species
• Evaluate the cost-benefit of preservation versus removal

For Severe-Risk Trees (31+ points):

• Schedule professional removal before hurricane season if the tree is near structures
• If removal is not immediately possible, consider temporary measures like cabling
• Develop a replacement plan using more hurricane-resistant species

If a tree fell during a previous storm or shows signs it might fall in the next hurricane, don’t delay in addressing the issue. In the aftermath of hurricane damage, many homeowners wish they had taken preventative action sooner.

Remember that in Broward County, permits are often required for tree removal. Our team at Discount Tree Service can help navigate these requirements while ensuring your property is protected.

After removal, consider opportunities to replant with wind-resistant native trees that are well-suited to South Florida’s climate. Plant the right tree in its place to ensure long-term success and storm resilience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is a visual assessment in predicting tree failure?

Visual assessments catch approximately 70-80% of potential failures when conducted systematically. However, some internal defects may not be visible without specialized equipment, which is why professional assessment is recommended for high-value or concerning trees.

If my tree survived previous hurricanes, does that mean it’s safe?

Not necessarily. Each storm creates cumulative stress and damage that may not be immediately apparent. Additionally, trees continue to grow larger between storms, potentially becoming more vulnerable as they age or develop structural issues.

Is it better to remove a tree preventatively or wait until it shows clear problems?

This depends on several factors including the tree’s location, species, condition, and value to your landscape. For high-risk species like ficus trees located near structures, proactive removal often makes sense. For valuable native species, preservation through proper maintenance is usually preferable when possible.

How soon before hurricane season should I have trees assessed?

Ideally, assessments should occur in January or February, allowing ample time for any necessary work to be completed before hurricane season begins in June. Last-minute trimming or removal may be more expensive and less available as storm threats increase.

Can hurricane-vulnerable trees be saved, or is removal the only option?

Many trees with moderate risk factors can be preserved through proper pruning, cabling, or other specialized techniques. The key is early intervention before structural problems become severe. Our certified arborists can recommend appropriate options based on each tree’s specific condition.

Do I need a permit to remove a dangerous tree in Broward County?

In most cases, yes. Broward County and its municipalities generally require permits for tree removal, even for hazardous trees. However, expedited processes often exist for documented hazardous situations. Our team at Discount Tree Service can help navigate these requirements efficiently.

Are native trees better at withstanding hurricanes than non-native species?

Generally, yes. Native trees have evolved in South Florida’s climate and are typically better adapted to withstand our weather patterns, including tropical storms and hurricanes. According to the University of Florida IFAS, native species like live oaks and sabal palms consistently outperform many non-native species during severe weather events.

Protect Your Home Before Storm Season Intensifies

Hurricane season in South Florida is an annual reality, but tree failures don’t have to be part of your experience. By taking proactive steps to identify and address vulnerable trees, you can significantly reduce the risk to your family and property.

At Discount Tree Service, we’ve been helping Broward County homeowners prepare for hurricane season for over 25 years. Our team of experienced arborists understands the unique challenges of our local climate and can provide expert guidance on preserving your valuable landscape while ensuring safety.

Don’t wait until a storm is approaching to address potential tree hazards. Contact our team today at (954) 289-2150 for a comprehensive property assessment and personalized recommendations for your trees.

Remember, when it comes to hurricane preparation, the best time to address vulnerable trees was last year – the second best time is now. Keep your trees healthy and your property safe by taking action before the next storm arrives.