How to Protect Your Landscaping From Storms
Essential Steps to Safeguard Your Outdoor Space
Heavy storms can wreak havoc on your landscaping, causing damage to trees, plants, outdoor structures, and even your home. To minimize the impact of severe weather, proper preparation and preventative measures are essential. By taking the right steps ahead of time, you can protect your landscaping from storms and keep your property safe.
Here are expert tips to help you safeguard your outdoor space before a storm hits.
1. Unplug and Secure Electrical Systems
Proper Propane Tank Handling Ensures Safety for Outdoor Heating and Grilling
- Turn off and unplug outdoor electrical systems, including landscape lighting, irrigation controls, and outdoor appliances.
- Shut off gas and propane tanks to prevent leaks or explosions.
- Secure or cover outdoor electrical outlets to prevent water damage.
Taking these precautions helps protect your landscaping features and prevents costly repairs.
2. Prepare and Protect Your Pool
A Well-Landscaped Backyard With Trees and a Pool
If you have an in-ground pool, preparing it for a storm is essential to prevent damage from debris, flooding, or power surges.
- Turn off the circuit breaker controlling pool equipment, including pumps, filters, and lighting.
- Wrap the pump motor in plastic or remove it and store it in a dry, secure location.
- Do not drain the pool completely. Instead, lower the water level by about a foot to reduce the risk of overflow.
- Remove or secure pool furniture, flotation devices, and cleaning equipment to prevent them from becoming airborne in strong winds.
Proper pool preparation reduces damage and makes post-storm cleanup easier.
3. Secure Outdoor Furniture and Loose Items
Strong winds can turn unsecured patio furniture, potted plants, and garden decorations into dangerous projectiles. To prevent damage and ensure safety:
A Downpour Drenches a Peaceful Backyard Patio
- Store lightweight furniture and decorative items indoors or in a shed or garage.
- Anchor or weigh down larger outdoor furniture that cannot be moved.
- Secure garden ornaments, loose stones, and outdoor fixtures that could be carried away by high winds.
These measures help protect your property and reduce the risk of damage to windows, vehicles, and neighboring homes.
4. Prune Trees and Shrubs Regularly
Heavy Rain Falls on a Leafy Branch
One of the most effective ways to prevent storm damage is maintaining healthy trees and shrubs throughout the year.
- Remove dead, weak, or overhanging branches that could break off in strong winds.
- Trim trees near power lines and structures to reduce the risk of fallen limbs.
- Strengthen young trees with proper staking to prevent uprooting.
Routine pruning and maintenance not only protect your landscaping but also help prevent hazardous conditions during storms.
5. Consider Flood Insurance for Added Protection
Intense Rain Can Cause Erosion and Flooding
For homeowners in areas prone to heavy rain, hurricanes, or flooding, investing in flood insurance provides financial security..
- Standard homeowners or renters insurance does not typically cover flood damage.
- Flood insurance can help cover damage to landscaping, hardscapes, and outdoor structures.
- Check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options and consider additional policies if necessary.
Securing proper insurance ensures peace of mind and financial protection against severe weather events.
6. Prioritize Safety During the Storm
Once your landscaping is secure, it is important to take personal safety measures.
- Stay indoors during the storm and keep pets inside.
- Avoid standing near windows or glass doors in case of flying debris.
- Follow local weather advisories and evacuation orders if necessary.
Taking these precautions helps minimize risk and ensures the safety of you and your family.
Protect Your Landscaping with Professional Help
Storm preparedness is key, but regular maintenance can also help reduce damage when severe weather strikes. If you need professional assistance with tree pruning, landscape reinforcement, or storm damage cleanup, consider hiring an experienced landscaping company.
For homeowners in the San Francisco Bay Area, Arborist Now offers expert tree care, landscape maintenance, and storm protection services to keep your outdoor space safe and well-maintained.
Originally posted on February 7, 2019
