Hurricane-Ready Trees: A Homeowner’s Guide to Tree Safety in the Lowcountry
Every year, hurricane season puts the Lowcountry on high alert. From Bluffton and Hilton Head Island to Savannah, residents prepare for high winds, heavy rain, and potential property damage. But often, one major hazard gets overlooked until it’s too late—unsafe or vulnerable trees.
At Kolcun Tree Care, we’ve seen firsthand the damage a poorly maintained tree can cause during a storm. With over 20 years of experience, ISA-certified arborists, and a deep commitment to safety, we help homeowners prepare their landscapes to withstand whatever the season brings. This guide will show you how to storm-proof your trees and protect your home, your family, and your investment.
Why Tree Safety Is Critical Before a Hurricane
Strong, healthy trees add beauty and value to your property. But in high winds, damaged, overgrown, or diseased trees can turn into major liabilities. Uprooted trees, falling limbs, and snapped trunks can:
- Damage roofs, vehicles, and fences
- Knock down power lines
- Block roads and driveways
- Pose serious risks to people and pets
Storm season is unpredictable—but taking proactive steps now can drastically reduce the need for emergency tree removal later.
6 Steps to Prepare Your Trees for Hurricane Season
1. Schedule a Tree Health Inspection
Start with a professional tree health care assessment. Our certified arborists will evaluate your trees for hidden signs of weakness or disease that could lead to failure in high winds.
We look for:
- Cracks or cavities in the trunk
- Dead or hanging limbs
- Signs of root damage or decay
- Fungal growth or pest infestation
Routine inspections can help you catch and correct issues before they become costly problems.
2. Prune Strategically for Storm Resistance
Proper tree trimming and pruning reduce wind resistance and prevent branches from breaking during storms. Avoid "topping" or excessive pruning, which can weaken trees and lead to long-term damage.
Instead, we recommend:
- Thinning dense canopies to improve airflow
- Removing deadwood and weak branches
- Shaping trees for structural balance
Pruning should always be done by experienced professionals to avoid harming the tree or creating new hazards.
3. Remove Dead or Hazardous Trees in Advance
If a tree is beyond saving—due to disease, storm damage, or severe root issues— tree removal may be the safest option. Removing a dying or unstable tree before the storm can prevent more expensive damage afterward.
Our team also provides stump grinding to safely eliminate what’s left behind and restore the area for future planting or landscaping.
4. Fertilize for Stronger Roots and Recovery
Well-fed trees are better able to resist and recover from storm damage. Our tree fertilization programs deliver the nutrients trees need to grow deeper roots and stronger trunks, helping them remain upright during intense winds.
This is especially important for:
- Young or newly planted trees
- Trees in compacted or sandy soils
- Ornamental and high-value landscape trees
5. Aerate and Strengthen Root Zones
Healthy roots anchor a tree. AirSpade root aeration is a non-invasive way to loosen compacted soil, improve oxygen flow, and give roots the space they need to grow stronger and deeper.
Aeration is especially helpful for:
- Trees in high-traffic areas or near driveways
- Properties with heavy clay soil
- Trees that have shown signs of stress or decline
6. Have an Emergency Tree Plan in Place
Sometimes, no matter how well you prepare, nature has other plans. That’s why it’s important to have a tree care partner who offers emergency tree removal services after a storm.
Kolcun Tree Care is available for rapid response across Bluffton, Hilton Head Island, Savannah, and surrounding communities. Whether a limb is on your roof or a tree is blocking your driveway, we’re here to help you recover quickly and safely.
Why Homeowners Across the Lowcountry Trust Kolcun Tree Care
We’re more than just a tree service—we’re your partners in property protection. Our full suite of services includes:
- Tree trimming and pruning
- Tree health care and fertilization
- Tree removal and stump grinding
- Emergency tree removal
- Root zone aeration and diagnostics
- Ongoing arborist services for homeowners and businesses
We serve residential and commercial properties with tailored solutions that reflect the unique needs of our Lowcountry climate.
Ready Your Trees—Before the Storm Arrives
Hurricanes are a fact of life in the Southeast—but major damage doesn’t have to be. With help from the professionals at Kolcun Tree Care, you can make your trees safer, your property more secure, and your landscape more resilient year-round.
Submit an inquiry through our website, or give us a call at 843-757-8050 to schedule your hurricane readiness consultation. Let’s make sure your trees are as prepared as the rest of your home this storm season.
