It is not always recommended to reset your storm damaged tree. If your tree has suffered extensive root damage, limb breakage or has been seriously hat-racked, removing the tree may be the best solution.
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Below is a tentative list of trees that industry professionals, horticulturists, arborists, and county agents agree performed reasonably well during recent storms. While these species may have performed better than other species, it is important to understand that storm tolerance is not determined by species alone. In fact, there are many factors that must be looked at when considering a safe and storm resistant tree. This includes choosing a quality tree; selecting the right location; planting at the accurate depth (do not plant too deep); allowing for adequate rooting space; considering irrigation needs (do not over water); and performing structural pruning to avoid multiple stems and an overly dense canopy. Remember, trees in their natural environment grow in groups (hammocks), so whenever possible, plant your tree in clusters for better tolerance in high winds. |
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When choosing a replacement tree, you want to choose the right tree for the right place in your landscape. Always consider the mature size of the tree when deciding where to plant; It is also important to purchase a quality tree (discussed more on page 4), and plant and maintain the tree properly. For information on correct planting and maintenance see planting and pruning. You can also contact the Broward County Extension Education Division at (954) 370-3725 for details on best management practices for planting and maintaining your landscape. Following these recommendations will make your trees stronger and safer. |
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Gumbo Limbo (Bursera simaruba)
Large deciduous tree with open, spreading branches
Grows to about 50 to 60 feet tall
Prefers full sun
Grows best in sandy well drained soils
Has a smooth peeling bark with bronze tones |
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Bridalveil (Caesalpinia granadillo)
Medium sized flowering tree
Grows to about 30 to 35 feet tall
Prefers full sun; dry soil
Moderately drought resistant
Yellow blossoms with beautiful peeling bark |
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Cypress (Taxodium spp.)
Large deciduous tree; conifer
Bald Cypress grows to 70 feet tall; Pond Cypress is the smaller variety
Will tolerate a wide variety of soils including very wet
Prefers full sun to partial shade
Known for their knees and buttressed, tapered trunks |
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Weeping Tamarind (Lysiloma sabicu)
Small to medium sized evergreen tree
Can grow to about 25 feet tall
Does best in full sun; drought tolerant
White flowers; flowering season is in the spring and summer
Also consider Indian Tamarind (Tamarindus indica).
Live Oak (Quercus virginiana)
Large evergreen tree with dense canopy and hard wood
Grows to about 40 to 50 feet
Prefers full sun; sandy soils
Stayed upright in wind where planted on well-drained sites. |
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Small Flowering Trees
With the exception of Crepe Myrtle, very few species of flowering/accent trees consistently performed well in recent storms. However, because of the need for color and variety, such trees do have a place in the urban landscape and if replanted may benefit from being placed in groups and/or in sheltered areas. Several species that appeared to do fairly well are shown below. |
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Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)
Small deciduous multi-stemmed tree
Grows to about 10 to 20 feet
Will tolerate a wide variety of soils
Does best in full sun
Low maintenance, long blooming tree, with flowers in a variety of color
Natchez (white), Muskogee (Lavender), Tuskeegee (Pink), and Tuscarora (Red) varieties grow well in |
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South Florida
Dahoon Holly (Ilex cassine)
Small evergreen tree
Grows to about 30 feet
Does best in full sun; drought tolerant
Small white flowers and decorative red fruit that attract birds |
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Jamaican Caper (Capparis cynophallophora)
Slow growing large shrub to small tree
Can grow to 15 feet
Does best in full sun to partial shade; drought tolerant
Fragrant showy white flowers; underside of leaves rust-colored |
Lignum Vitae (Guaiacum sanctum)
Slow growing small evergreen tree
Typical height is 15 feet
Prefers full sun; drought tolerant
Showy blue star shaped flowers
Factors to Consider When Buying a Quality Tree
After you have decided on a species that is right for you and your property (Right Tree-Right Place), select a high quality treeeither a Florida Fancy or a Florida Grade No. 1--determined as such by the Florida Grades and Standards. This quality rating is based upon trunk, branch, crown, leaf and root characteristics. For more information on grades and standards, go to the Florida Department of Agriculture website at http://www.doacs.state.fl.us/pi/pubs.html |
