5 Ways to Hurricane-Proof Your Florida Lawn

It feels like hurricane season takes up more and more of each year, doesn’t it? Right now in Central Florida, we’ve already had a few near-misses when it comes to the big storms, but there are still a few months left in our hurricane season. While the extra rain we’ve been experiencing may make conditions a little too soggy to do a serious lawn overhaul, it’s a great time to start planning your hurricane-proof lawn for the spring.

Your lawn may not be the first thing you plan to protect when a major storm heads your way, but hurricane-proofing your lawn can help minimize damage to your property and, most importantly, keep you safe. Read on to learn a few of our tips to grow a lawn that will withstand severe weather systems.

1. Lawn Layout Matters

While it may not be possible for you to re-plan your whole lawn from scratch, you can make wise decisions about where you put trees and plants in the future. First and foremost, you want to make sure that you’re prepared for any possible outcome if a tree on your property should fall. Take note of what the tree may damage in its facility, including your home, your neighbors’ homes, power lines, and so on. Take measures to remove any dangerous branches and trees, if possible.

2. Choose Native Plants

The most low-maintenance plants you’ll have in your garden are native plants. They’re also the most likely to survive a hurricane. Florida native foliage has grown in the area for thousands of years and evolved to be better able to survive our frequent heavy storms. Some plants are even able to withstand salt spray from major storms and flooding. The University of Florida has wonderful resources for planning and planting a native garden.

3. Use Mulch, Not Stones

Mulch is the “Florida-friendliest” garden bed and ground cover because it’s soft, unlike landscaping stones. By choosing mulch over stones, you’re eliminating the possibility that your ground cover will turn into dangerous projectiles when the winds start to pick up. We love using mulch in our yards to help control moisture and weeds, and it comes in a number of beautiful colors to match your decor.

4. Assess Your Lawn’s Drainage

Large pools of standing water can spell trouble for your property. They become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, can harm plant growth, and can even damage your home’s foundation. If you’ve noticed large puddles of standing water around your property, it’s best to consult with a landscaping professional to determine the scope of the solution you need.

5. Mow Your Lawn

You read that correctly! Keeping your grass at a manageable height is an important part of hurricane proofing. Admittedly, mowing the lawn shouldn’t be the top task on your to-do list when a hurricane is headed your way, but it can help minimize the number of projectiles in your yard and reduce the need for cleanup after the storm.

Above all, regular care and maintenance can help you prepare your yard for whatever weather may come our way. Regularly mowing and maintaining your lawn can alert you to any potential issues with drainage, layout, and more. As always, perform your lawn care services with equipment that’s in top shape for best results. To schedule your professional lawn mower service, call Gator Mower Parts at 407-260-1292 today.