October may bring cooler mornings to Fleming Island, but it doesn’t necessarily mean severe-weather season is behind us. Tropical systems remain possible well into the fall, and strong cold fronts can bring thunderstorms, tornadoes and damaging straight-line winds to Northeast Florida.
For homeowners in the neighborhood, that makes fall an especially good time to take a close look at the trees surrounding your home.
Our neighborhood is known for its beautiful mature tree canopy. Towering oaks, magnolias and other established trees are part of what gives the neighborhood its character. But older, larger trees also deserve regular attention, especially when they grow close to homes, driveways, streets and power lines.
One of the biggest dangers during a severe storm isn’t always the tree itself. It’s often a large dead or weakened limb that becomes airborne or falls under the pressure of high winds.
Look for warning signs such as dead branches, hanging limbs, cavities, mushrooms or decay around the base of the tree, cracked trunks, exposed roots or noticeable changes in the way a tree is leaning. Large limbs extending over roofs can also become particularly hazardous during strong wind events.
Proper pruning can reduce wind resistance by removing dead, damaged or poorly positioned limbs while preserving the natural structure of the tree. However, excessive trimming or “topping” a tree can actually weaken it. Mature trees should be evaluated and pruned with their long-term health in mind.
Another neighborhood consideration is saturated soil. Heavy tropical rainfall can soften the ground around root systems. When that is followed by strong winds, even an apparently healthy tree can become vulnerable to uprooting.
The best time to address a dangerous limb or questionable tree is before the weather forecast shows a storm approaching. Once severe weather is imminent, tree companies become busy and safely performing certain work may no longer be possible.
Robert’s Tree Service recommends having mature trees professionally inspected periodically and anytime you notice something unusual.
Your trees are a valuable part of your property…and of the neighborhood itself. Proper maintenance can help preserve them while reducing the risk to your home, vehicles and family when the winds begin to blow.
Robert’s Tree Service
24-Hour Emergency Tree Service
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