August 15, 2025
In Gainesville and across Alachua County, hurricanes and tropical storms are part of our reality. While we can't control the weather, we can take steps to help our landscapes handle it better. For HOA boards, these steps can reduce safety hazards, protect property value, and make post-storm recovery faster and less costly.
Over the years, we've worked alongside communities to prepare for storm season. Here's what we've seen work well — practical measures any board can take to protect its investment in trees, plants, and common areas.
Most storm cleanup is billed as an extra expense, but there's a big difference between reacting to damage and preparing ahead of time. Communities that plan in advance often:
Being proactive isn't about doing everything at once — it's about building small, consistent steps into the regular landscape management schedule.
Healthy tree structure is one of the strongest defenses against wind damage. We follow an industry guideline to remove no more than about 25–30% of a tree's canopy in a single pruning session. This helps the tree keep its balance, improves airflow through the canopy, and reduces the chance of large limbs breaking.
When we prepare trees for storm season, we focus on:
Some trees naturally handle Florida's weather better than others. In many Gainesville communities, we see good results with:
When planning new plantings or replacements, consider a mix of trees with proven wind resistance to reduce long-term replacement costs.
One of the most valuable things a landscape vendor can provide is a written storm-prep plan tailored to your community. Whether you work with us or another provider, a good plan typically includes:
Having these steps in writing means nothing is left to chance when a storm is approaching.
Before the peak storm months of August through October, we help boards:
No landscape can be made completely storm-proof, but preparation can go a long way toward reducing risks and costs. By keeping trees healthy, choosing the right plants, and having a clear plan with your vendor, your community can face storm season with more confidence.
Is your community — and your vendor — ready for the stormy season? We're always glad to walk through a pre-storm checklist together and share ideas that fit your property's needs.