Tree expert tells how to prepare for hurricane season

THE WOODLANDS, TX – Though hurricane season doesn’t officially start until this Sunday, recent raging storms have already caused property damage, frequently in the form of trees falling under the weight of rain and wind.

Mike Powers, owner of Top Cut Tree Service, is well aware of the dangers of falling limbs and trunks, having spent four decades in the tree-trimming industry. He started Top Cut in his teens and has been perfecting the tree industry since. His company is bonded and insured and a member of TCIA and Angie’s List.

Top Cut specializes in tree trimming and removal, shaping and pruning, land clearing, and stump grinding. Under Powers’ guidance, the company also specializes in preventative tree services such as insect control and root rot and fertilization.

With the pre-summer storms still pouring rain and blowing wind, Woodlands Online sat down with Powers to talk about the impending hurricane season and how to best prepare for it even as some people continue to pick up from the current storms.

“Be ready for hurricane season; take action today to be better prepared for when the worst happens,” he told Woodlands Online. “Understand your risk from hurricanes, and begin pre-season preparations now. Make sure you have multiple ways of receiving forecasts and alerts, and know what to do before, during, and after a storm.”

Powers has some handy tips to best protect your family and property from tree and shrub damage:

• Choose the right trees – “Select trees with deep, widespread roots and strong wood to withstand strong winds and heavy rains,” he said. Such trees include white oak, red oak, hickory, pines, maples, ash, and walnuts. Conversely, consider removing trees with shallow roots, and tall trees close to your house, to avoid damage to houses and cars.
• Regular pruning – “Keep trees pruned to remove dead, dying, or weakly connected limbs, and thin out canopies to allow air to flow through.”
• Plant strategically – “Plant larger trees away from your home and power lines to reduce the risk of branches falling on your property.”
• Secure outdoor items – “Move heavy items like patio furniture and plants to a sheltered area to prevent them from being blown away,” he told Woodlands Online. Additionally, he urges you to anchor down trampolines by getting two screw-in anchors and zip tie them to the trampoline to prevent airlifting and damaging your property.
• Prepare rain barrels – “If you have rain barrels, move them to a secure location and ensure they are not connected to a gutter to prevent overflow.”

By following these easy steps, you can help protect your home and landscape from the damaging effects of bad weather from the current storms to full-force hurricanes.

“Remember to consult with a certified arborist for specific recommendations tailored to your area,” said Powers, pointing out that Top Cut is fully insured and bonded, and also offers tree services at a reduced rate for senior citizens, as well as free estimates.