The best way to protect trees is to stay proactive and prepare them for the rainy season.
Florida ranks among the rainiest and wettest states in the USA. The rainy season begins around June and lasts till September. Florida's rainy season is known for thunderstorms and frequent sudden downpours. While rain is vital to keep the trees healthy by providing them with water essential for their survival, excessive rain during this time of the year can also create various problems for the landscape.
High-intensity winds, lightning, excessive rainfall, and flooding can cause significant tree damage and sometimes require calling a tree service professional for emergency tree removal. Some trees are more vulnerable to these damaging elements than others. Too much water can affect the trees from tip to root, increasing the risk of injuries and property damage.
How do heavy rains affect trees?
Trees that are more vulnerable during the rainy season include those with exposed roots, compacted soil, large canopy, heavy top, growing in restricted spaces, diseased, and the ones leaning towards a particular side. Here is how excess rainfall affects trees:
Weaken the roots
Strong winds often accompany rainstorms in Florida. They pose a severe threat of property damage. The risk of damage and tree toppling increases if the root system is weak due to oversaturated ground. Prolonged exposure of trees with weakened roots to heavy rain and winds increases the likelihood of problems.
Oversaturate the soil
During the rainy season, the risk of excessive downpour can oversaturate the soil and increase tree issues. Oversaturated soil has too much water and lacks oxygen. It hinders oxygen supply to the root system, increases the soil pH, and how roots absorb essential nutrients. It makes the trees more susceptible to damage. Even the roots of the healthiest of trees can die if the soil stays saturated for days.
Promote fungus growth
A common side effect of heavy rainfall is the increased risk of fungi infestation. Fungi need a damp environment to thrive, which the rainy season provides abundantly. Too much rain and warm Florida temperatures make trees more vulnerable to problems posed by fungus and bacteria. Fungus growth or root rot can weaken the roots and cause the leaves to drop, lesions, and foliage discoloration.
How to assess trees during the rainy season
It is vital to assess tree damage after a spell of excess rainfall and ensure they are safe to endure the next rain spell. Keep an eye out for root and soil damage signs like:
Cracks in the tree stem
Leaning trunk
Exposed roots
Discoloration
Fungus
Cavities
Wilted or brown leaves
Black or soft roots
After taking a quick survey, call a tree service company if there is any noticeable damage. Pros can inspect the trees and take steps to preserve or remove them.
Protect the trees from heavy rain and thunderstorms
The best way to protect trees is to stay proactive and prepare them for the rainy season. Regular tree maintenance, care, and monitoring reduce the risk of damage and other issues. Professionals can take the following steps:
Prune dead and decaying tree limbs
Tree trimming
Improve soil condition around the tree through mulching and proper irrigation
Cabling and bracing for extra support
Hire a professional tree service to inspect the trees for disease, rot, decay, and other problems to assess their ability to endure the challenges of the Florida rainy season.
