tree species and planting lists
Storm Resiliency
FEMA Links
Six Ways to Prepare Your Home for a Hurricane
Storm Preparedness
Before storm season (June–November), have a certified arborist assess your trees to identify and remove dead or dying branches, thin congested canopies, and trim limbs near your home, vehicles, or power lines—especially those within 10 feet of structures. Prune during the ideal window of late winter to early spring to reduce wind resistance while allowing trees time to heal before summer storms. Certified arborists can also correct structural issues like V-shaped branch unions, install cabling or bracing, and recommend removal of hazardous trees preemptively. Proper pre-storm tree care minimizes property damage and enhances your landscape’s resilience.
How-To's
Plant
Proper tree planting is one of the most important steps in ensuring a tree grows strong, healthy, and stable for years to come. Planting a tree at the right depth, in the right location, and with proper care helps prevent future problems such as weak roots, poor growth, or storm damage. A well-planted tree is more resilient, safer, and adds long-term value to your home and community. To help residents feel confident in planting correctly, we encourage you to watch the brief tree-planting tutorial provided, which demonstrates the proper steps and techniques.
Prune
Proper pruning is essential for keeping trees healthy, structurally sound, and resilient during storms. Removing dead or weakened branches reduces the chance of breakage,
while selective pruning improves airflow through the canopy and encourages strong, safe growth. Because improper pruning can weaken a tree, create hazards, or lead to long-term damage, homeowners should always hire a certified arborist who knows how to make the right cuts, assess tree structure, and determine which limbs should or should not be pruned.
When to call a certified arborist:
- When a tree has dead, broken, or hanging branches
- When branches are too close to your home, driveway, sidewalk, or power lines
- When you notice signs of disease, decay, or insect infestation
- After storms, if the tree appears unstable or damaged
- When you are unsure how to approach pruning or what size limbs should be removed
- For seasonal or routine pruning to maintain long-term tree health and safety