{"id":39019,"date":"2025-05-20T19:15:29","date_gmt":"2025-05-20T19:15:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/?p=39019"},"modified":"2025-06-03T19:46:40","modified_gmt":"2025-06-03T19:46:40","slug":"hurricane-resistant-landscaping-ideas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-ideas\/","title":{"rendered":"8 Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hurricane-resistant landscaping isn&#8217;t just about curb appeal \u2014 it&#8217;s your home&#8217;s first defense against nature&#8217;s fury. Strategic plant selection and placement create a protective shield that can mean the difference between minor cleanup and catastrophic damage when storms strike.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Climate data reveals a troubling trend: hurricanes are intensifying. NOAA research shows storms now deliver 15% more rainfall, create 2 to 3 feet higher storm surges, and produce more devastating Category 4 and 5 wind events. These forces turn ordinary trees and garden features into projectiles and flood hazards.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When hurricane winds topple trees, snap branches, and hurl debris, unprepared yards become liability zones. However, wind-resistant trees with deep root systems, proper drainage solutions, and thoughtful material choices all work together to shield properties from storm damage. Let\u2019s look at 8 strategies to help your landscape stand strong against hurricanes.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-table-of-contents-block ub_table-of-contents\" id=\"ub_table-of-contents-89ee6325-807f-49bd-ba2a-e8267de4843a\" data-linktodivider=\"false\" data-showtext=\"show\" data-hidetext=\"hide\" data-scrolltype=\"auto\" data-enablesmoothscroll=\"false\" data-initiallyhideonmobile=\"false\" data-initiallyshow=\"true\"><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-header\" style=\"text-align: left; \"> \t\t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-title\" style=\"\"><strong>In this article:<\/strong><\/div> \t\t\t\t \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-extra-container\" style=\"\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"ub_table-of-contents-container ub_table-of-contents-1-column\"> \t\t\t\t<ul style=\"\"><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-ideas\/#0-1-plant-trees-away-from-your-home-power-lines\" style=\"\">1. Plant trees away from your home, power lines<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-ideas\/#1-2-plant-wind-resistant-trees\" style=\"\">2. Plant wind-resistant trees<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-ideas\/#2-3-group-trees-together\" style=\"\">3. Group trees together<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-ideas\/#3-4-trim-trees\" style=\"\">4. Trim trees<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-ideas\/#4-5-grow-salt-tolerant-plants\" style=\"\">5. Grow salt-tolerant plants<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-ideas\/#5-6-install-wind-resistant-fencing\" style=\"\">6. Install wind-resistant fencing<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-ideas\/#6-7-use-soft-mulches\" style=\"\">7. Use soft mulches<\/a><\/li><li style=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-ideas\/#7-8-improve-yard-drainage\" style=\"\">8. Improve yard drainage<\/a><\/li><\/ul> \t\t\t<\/div> \t\t<\/div><\/div>   <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"0-1-plant-trees-away-from-your-home-power-lines\"><span id=\"1-plant-trees-away-from-your-home-power-lines\">1. Plant trees away from your home, power lines<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to a study by Andrew Koeser, UF\/IFAS associate professor of environmental horticulture, many trees survive Category 1 hurricanes. However, winds up to 95 mph are powerful enough to snap large branches and topple shallow-rooted trees, which can damage nearby structures. To keep your home safe, follow these rules when planning tree placement:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Plant trees at a distance of 1 to 1.5 times their expected mature height from your home and structures.<\/li>    <li>Select species with deep, extensive root systems as they&#8217;re less likely to topple in hurricane-force winds.<\/li>    <li>Keep trees at least 20 feet from power lines, regardless of size.&nbsp;<\/li>    <li>Native trees often have natural adaptations to local storm conditions, making them excellent choices for hurricane-prone regions. We\u2019ll take a closer look at this next.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>My tip:<\/strong> If you have trees near your home or outbuildings, I recommend hiring a tree specialist to transplant or remove them. DIY tree removal is challenging and can lead to severe damage to your home. Lawn Love can connect you with a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/near-me\">local arborist<\/a> in minutes.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read more:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/tree-removal-cost\/\">How Much Does Tree Removal Cost?<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hiring-arborist-cost\/#trans\">How Much Does Hiring An Arborist Cost?<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"1-2-plant-wind-resistant-trees\"><span id=\"2-plant-wind-resistant-trees\">2. Plant wind-resistant trees<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"629\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Live-oak-tree.jpg\" alt=\"Large live oak tree with a wide canopy casting shade on a well-maintained lawn.\" class=\"wp-image-39045\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Live-oak-tree.jpg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Live-oak-tree-300x236.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Live-oak-tree-768x604.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Live-oak-tree-610x480.jpg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Live Oak Tree<br><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/photos\/tree-nature-oak-tree-live-oak-113924\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Creating a hurricane-resistant landscape involves choosing trees that can withstand strong winds. Wind-resistant survivor trees typically have moderate growth rates, deep root systems, tapered trunks that are wider at the base, and low centers of gravity. Many of these species are native to hurricane-prone regions and have evolved over centuries to withstand regional storm patterns.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In contrast, victim trees are shallow-rooted, quick-growing, and have large, dense canopies that shift their center of gravity upward. These trees are top-heavy and prone to toppling easily.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>My tip:<\/strong> When buying trees, choose those with straight roots, a single dominant trunk, and branches that are spaced far apart. These trees are strong and are likely to develop into survivor trees. However, remember that maintenance is still vital for survivor trees. They require regular pruning and fertilization to maintain their wind-resistant qualities.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s look at some survivor and victim trees and why they work or fail.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Survivor Trees<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Why They Survive&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Victim Trees<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Why They Fall&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Live Oak<\/td><td>Wide root plate, flexible<\/td><td>Bradford Pear<\/td><td>Weak branch structure&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bald Cypress&nbsp;<\/td><td>Buttressed base, deep roots<\/td><td>Sand Pine<\/td><td>Shallow roots&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Southern Magnolia<\/td><td>Wind-resistant leaves&nbsp;<\/td><td>Water Oak&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/td><td>Top-heavy growth pattern<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sabal Palm<\/td><td>Flexible trunk, no branches<\/td><td>Australian Pine<\/td><td>Brittle wood, invasive<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Crape Myrtle<\/td><td>Multi-stemmed, low center<\/td><td>Laurel Oak<\/td><td>Decay-prone, dense canopy<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cabbage Palm<\/td><td>Fibrous root system<\/td><td>Pecan<\/td><td>Weak wood, large canopy<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Dahoon Holly<\/td><td>Dense, compact growth habit<\/td><td>Queen Palm<\/td><td>Shallow roots, top-heavy<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Southern Red Cedar<\/td><td>Deep taproot, flexible branches<\/td><td>Silver Maple<\/td><td>Fast growth, weak structure&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more: <\/strong>Check out other top picks in our guide on <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wind-resistant-trees\/\">wind-resistant trees<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wind-resistant-plants-that-look-great-in-your-landscape-lawn-love-ranking\/\">wind-resistant plants<\/a>.<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"2-3-group-trees-together\"><span id=\"3-group-trees-together\">3. Group trees together<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Planting trees in strategic clusters creates effective windbreaks that reduce wind velocity and distribute storm forces. Tree experts Mary L. Duryea and Eliana Kampf recommend groups of \u201c5 or more trees, each growing within 10 feet of another tree, but not in a row.\u201d<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For maximum protection, arrange these clusters in staggered formations facing prevailing hurricane winds. While closer spacing limits individual tree size due to root competition, it creates a more unified wind-resistant system. Include a mix of species with different root depths and growth habits to enhance overall stability and resilience.<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"3-4-trim-trees\"><span id=\"4-trim-trees\">4. Trim trees<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trim overgrown, weak, damaged, and dying branches before storm season so they don\u2019t have the opportunity to damage your home or car.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to UF, properly pruned trees have a survival rate of 73% compared to unpruned trees. <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/what-is-pruning\/#0-10-reasons-to-prune-trees-and-shrubs\">Pruning benefits trees<\/a> by stimulating new growth, plus it keeps trees to a smaller size with less dense canopies.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let\u2019s look over what to do and what to avoid when trimming trees.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td colspan=\"2\"><strong>Proper hurricane pruning strategies<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DO: Thin canopy evenly (reduces wind resistance)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DO: Remove crossing branches (prevents rubbing damage)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DO: Maintain the tree&#8217;s natural shape (preserves structural integrity)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DO: Prune when dormant (minimizes stress)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DO: Cut outside branch collar (promotes healthy healing)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DO: Balance weight distribution (prevents leaning)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DO: Raise canopy gradually over the years (maintains stability)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DO: Remove water sprouts\/suckers (prevents weak growth)<\/td><td><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DON&#8217;T: &#8220;Lion tail&#8221; branches (creates top-heavy structure)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DON&#8217;T: Top trees (weakens overall structure)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DON&#8217;T: Remove more than 25% of foliage (stresses the tree)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DON&#8217;T: Leave stubs (invites disease\/pests)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DON&#8217;T: Make flush cuts (damages trunk tissue)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DON&#8217;T: Over-raise the canopy (destabilizes the tree)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DON&#8217;T: Prune during hurricane season (weakens structure)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> DON&#8217;T: Create one-sided pruning (causes imbalance)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>My tip: <\/strong>You can certainly trim your own trees, but it\u2019s better to hire an arborist to do it, especially if you have palm trees. You can contact a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/near-me\">local tree care professional<\/a> on Lawn Love\u2019s website or app.<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"4-5-grow-salt-tolerant-plants\"><span id=\"5-grow-salt-tolerant-plants\">5. Grow salt-tolerant plants<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Homeowners living along the coast are presented with another challenge: excess salt in their landscapes due to salt spray and increased storm surge. Salt is devastating to plants because it prevents them from absorbing nutrients from the soil, which eventually kills them.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Luckily, some plants have adapted to higher salt levels that come with a coastal habitat. These include beach evening primrose, seaside goldenrod, and magnolias. This chart outlines the best salt-tolerant choices for your landscape.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>High salt tolerance<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Medium salt tolerance<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Avoid in coastal areas<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Shrubs and trees:<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Sea grape<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Sabal palm<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Buttonwood<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Muhly grass<\/td><td>Shrubs and trees:<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Wax myrtle<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Southern magnolia<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Live oak<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Crape myrtle<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Sweet bay magnolia<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Yaupon holly<\/td><td>Shrubs and trees:<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Azalea<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Dogwood<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Red maple<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Japanese maple<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Star magnolia<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Cucumber magnolia<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Perennials and groundcover:<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Beach sunflower<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Railroad vine<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Sea oats<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Blanket flower<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Beach evening primrose<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Seaside goldenrod<\/td><td>Perennials and groundcover:<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Lantana<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Daylily<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Agapanthus<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Bottlebrush<\/td><td>Perennials and groundcover:<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Hostas<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Impatiens<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Hydrangea<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Gardenia<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Read more about salt-tolerant plants for your coastal home in our guides:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/salt-tolerant-plants-for-coastal-areas\/\">Salt-Tolerant Plants That Thrive in Coastal Areas<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/best-salt-tolerant-plants\/\">15 Best Salt-Tolerant Plants<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"5-6-install-wind-resistant-fencing\"><span id=\"6-install-wind-resistant-fencing\">6. Install wind-resistant fencing<\/span><\/h2>    <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"530\" src=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Wrought-Iron-Fence.jpeg\" alt=\"wrought iron fence in a house\" class=\"wp-image-39041\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Wrought-Iron-Fence.jpeg 800w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Wrought-Iron-Fence-300x199.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Wrought-Iron-Fence-768x509.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Wrought-Iron-Fence-610x404.jpeg 610w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pixabay.com\/sk\/photos\/dom-domov-breh-pobre%C5%BEie-pr%C3%ADstav-4803278\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pixabay<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many fences are no match for hurricane-force winds, but there are a few that can stand their ground. These fences allow wind to pass through them instead of letting it build up and rip them out. Your fencing material matters, too, with metal coming out on top against wood and vinyl. Let\u2019s take a look at <a href=\"https:\/\/fencegnome.com\/blog\/fencing\/best-fence-types-to-withstand-high-winds\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">wind-resistant fences<\/a> and which is best for your home:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Best for direct coastal exposure: aluminum slat fencing (with 2- to 3-inch gaps), chain link fencing, and wrought iron fencing.<\/li>    <li>Suitable for second-row properties: steel picket fencing, horizontal wood slat fencing (with 2-inch minimum gaps), and modified shadow box fencing.<\/li>    <li>Avoid in hurricane-prone areas: vinyl picket fencing, solid PVC\/vinyl fencing, solid wood privacy fencing, and bamboo fencing.<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Additionally, use metal or concrete posts for added sturdiness. To create the most wind-resistant fence, follow these basic hurricane standards:<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Widen the spaces between slats to 2 to 3 inches<\/li>    <li>Set posts a minimum of 24 inches deep in concrete footings<\/li>    <li>Space posts a maximum of 6 feet apart for greater stability<\/li>    <li>Use metal brackets and galvanized hardware<\/li>    <li>Install horizontal reinforcement on fence sections longer than 8&#8242;<\/li>    <li>Add 45-degree support braces on the corner posts<\/li>    <li>Consider removable fence sections in the highest risk areas<\/li> <\/ul>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>My tip: <\/strong>Want an easier option? <a href=\"https:\/\/quotes.fencegnome.com\/near-me?service=Fence+Installation&amp;ref=vcms-quotes-tile-hero\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Hire a fencing pro<\/a> specializing in hurricane-resistant fences to take care of the design and installation for you instead.<\/p>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"6-7-use-soft-mulches\"><span id=\"7-use-soft-mulches\">7. Use soft mulches<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mulch has many benefits, but it\u2019s prone to getting tossed around in a hurricane. Even heavier mulches, like rocks and gravel, are at the mercy of strong winds. Unfortunately, this spray of rocks can lead to broken windows, damaged siding, and bodily injuries.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can make a simple change to minimize the damage done by flying mulch: Use softer mulches. Let\u2019s look at a few mulches recommended for use in hurricane landscaping.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Type of mulch<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Wind resistance<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Resistance to floating away<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bark chips<\/td><td>High<\/td><td>Low<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/pine-straw-vs-mulch\/\">Pine needles<\/a><\/td><td>Medium<\/td><td>High<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/types-of-inorganic-mulch\/#6-4-rubber-mulch\">Rubber mulch<\/a><\/td><td>High<\/td><td>High<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/better-to-rake-or-mulch-leaves\/#2-the-pros-and-cons-of-mulching\">Shredded fallen leaves<\/a><\/td><td>Low to medium<\/td><td>Medium<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Shredded hardwood<\/td><td>Medium<\/td><td>Medium<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Read more:<\/strong><\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/types-of-mulch\/\">Types of mulch<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-mulch\/\">How to mulch<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-mulch\/\">How deep to mulch<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/where-to-find-free-mulch\/\">Where to find free mulch<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"7-8-improve-yard-drainage\"><span id=\"8-improve-yard-drainage\">8. Improve yard drainage<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hurricanes and heavy rains come hand in hand, resulting in <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-get-rid-of-standing-water-in-yard\/\">standing water<\/a> in your yard. Water can damage your foundation, and wooden parts of your home, like doors and porches, can swell.<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To protect your property from water damage, you\u2019ll want to have multiple drainage paths for water to flow to. Invest in preventative drainage measures or have drainage solutions built into your yard to <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/manage-stormwater-runoff\/\">manage stormwater runoff<\/a>.<\/p>    <figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Preventative drainage measures<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Drainage solutions<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>\u2022<\/strong> 5% yard slope (the ground 10 feet away from your foundation should be 6 inches lower)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> 3% to 5% slope on all hardscaped surfaces<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Swales (shallow ditches)<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Permeable paving for patios and walkways<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Lawn aeration for compacted soil<\/td><td><strong>\u2022<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/what-is-a-french-drain\/\">French drains<\/a> along problem boundaries<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/how-to-build-a-rain-garden\/\">Rain gardens<\/a><br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/myguttergnome.com\/blog\/gutters\/rain-chains-vs-traditional-downspouts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rain chains<\/a><br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Catch basins<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Dry wells<br><strong>\u2022<\/strong> Rainwater catchment systems, like <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/what-is-a-rain-barrel\/\">rain barrels<\/a> and underground cisterns<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Additionally, make sure that your existing storm drains are free of debris, like leaves, branches, pine needles, and grass clippings, so water can freely flow into them. You should also check your gutters and downspouts for blockages and damage. <a href=\"https:\/\/homegnome.com\/blog\/gutters\/signs-you-have-clogged-gutters\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Signs of clogged gutters<\/a> include sagging, spilling water, and stained siding.&nbsp;<\/p>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Need hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas specific to your region? Read our guides below or search Lawn Love\u2019s blog for <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/?s=hurricane+resistant+landscaping\">hurricane landscaping guides for your area<\/a>.<\/p>    <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-richmond\/\">Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Richmond<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-houston\/\">Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Houston<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-wilmington\/\">Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Wilmington, DE<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-baton-rouge\/\">Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Baton Rouge<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-ideas-new-orleans\/\">Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for New Orleans<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-tampa\/\">Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Tampa<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-jacksonville\/\">Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Jacksonville<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-pensacola\/\">Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Pensacola<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-myrtle-beach\/\">Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Myrtle Beach<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-charleston\/\">Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping for Charleston<\/a><\/li>    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/hurricane-resistant-landscaping-virginia-beach\/\">Hurricane-Resistant Landscaping Ideas for Virginia Beach<\/a><\/li> <\/ul>    <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1747768359156\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><\/p> <\/div> <\/div>    <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"8-connect-with-a-professional-to-care-for-your-yard\"><span id=\"connect-with-a-professional-to-care-for-your-yard\">Connect with a professional to care for your yard<\/span><\/h2>    <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas require skills that the average homeowner typically doesn\u2019t have, like trimming and removing trees. That\u2019s where Lawn Love\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/near-me\">local professionals<\/a> come in. They\u2019re easily reachable with a few clicks, and they can handle all the dirty work while you sit back and relax.<\/p>   <div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle wp-block-ub-content-toggle-block\" id=\"ub-content-toggle-block-b173c5e8-a206-49df-aa6d-53660106ff96\" data-mobilecollapse=\"false\" data-desktopcollapse=\"true\" data-preventcollapse=\"false\" data-showonlyone=\"true\"> <div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion\" style=\"border-color: #f1f1f1; border-top-left-radius: 8px; border-top-right-radius: 8px; border-bottom-left-radius: 8px; border-bottom-right-radius: 8px; \" id=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-block-\"> \t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-title-wrap\" style=\"background-color: #f1f1f1;\" aria-controls=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-0-b173c5e8-a206-49df-aa6d-53660106ff96\" tabindex=\"0\"> \t\t\t<p class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-title ub-content-toggle-title-b173c5e8-a206-49df-aa6d-53660106ff96\" style=\"color: #000000; \"><strong>Sources:<\/strong><\/p> \t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-toggle-wrap right\" style=\"color: #000000;\"><span class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-state-indicator wp-block-ub-chevron-down\"><\/span><\/div> \t\t<\/div> \t\t\t<div role=\"region\" aria-expanded=\"false\" class=\"wp-block-ub-content-toggle-accordion-content-wrap ub-hide\" id=\"ub-content-toggle-panel-0-b173c5e8-a206-49df-aa6d-53660106ff96\">  <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/sciencecouncil.noaa.gov\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/05\/1.1_SOS_Atlantic_Hurricanes_Climate.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Atlantic Hurricanes and Climate Change<\/a>.\u201d The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/blogs.ifas.ufl.edu\/news\/2022\/08\/23\/study-most-trees-survive-winds-from-hurricanes-as-strong-as-category-1-experts-still-urge-caution\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Study: Most trees survive winds from hurricanes as strong as Category 1; experts still urge caution<\/a>.\u201d By Brad Buck, senior public relations specialist. University of Florida IFAS.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.lsuagcenter.com\/topics\/family_home\/home\/design_construction\/design\/landscape%20design\/prepare-your-site\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Choosing trees for hurricane resistance<\/a>.\u201d By Bennett B. Joffrion, Jr., horticulture agent. Louisiana State University Extension.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mdpi.com\/1999-4907\/13\/7\/978\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Impact of Visual Defects and Neighboring Trees on Wind-Related Tree Failures<\/a>.\u201d By Michael F. Nelson, Ryan W. Klein, Andrew K. Koeser, Shawn M. Landry, and Brian Kane. MDPI.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/edis.ifas.ufl.edu\/publication\/FR173\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wind and Trees: Lessons Learned from Hurricanes<\/a>.\u201d By Mary L. Duryea, emeritus professor, and Eliana Kampf, academic program specialist. University of Florida IFAS.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.oregon.gov\/odf\/Documents\/forestbenefits\/tree-city-usa-bulletin-75-how-to-make-trees-storm-resilient.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">How to Make Trees Storm Resistant<\/a>.\u201d Edited by James R. Fazio. Originally by the Arbor Day Foundation, hosted on the official website of the State of Oregon.<\/li>    <li>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.lsuagcenter.com\/profiles\/rbogren\/articles\/page1590152847414\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Prepare lawns, landscapes, gardens for hurricane season<\/a>.\u201d By Heather Kirk-Ballard, assistant professor. Louisiana State University Extension.<\/li> <\/ul>  <\/div> \t\t<\/div> <\/div>   <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Main Image Credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/images\/neighbors-tree-falls-on-to-neighbors-house-and-over-driveway\/369800137\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">coachwood<\/a> \/ Adobe Stock Free \/ <a href=\"https:\/\/stock.adobe.com\/license-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">License<\/a><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Hurricane-resistant landscaping ideas include planting wind-resistant trees away from your home, grouping trees together, properly pruning trees, growing salt-tolerant plants, installing wind-resistant fencing, using soft mulches, and improving yard drainage.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":101,"featured_media":39023,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"off","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[298],"tags":[222,226],"class_list":["post-39019","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-landscaping","tag-landscaping","tag-lawn-care-tips"],"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/hurricane-damage.jpeg","author_info":{"display_name":"Janine Caayao","author_link":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/author\/janine-caayao\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39019","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/101"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=39019"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39019\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":39522,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39019\/revisions\/39522"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/39023"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=39019"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=39019"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lawnlove.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=39019"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}