June marks the official start of hurricane season, and in Houston, commercial property owners know the importance of being prepared. While much of the focus tends to be on structural readiness, your landscape plays a critical role in property protection, functionality, and recovery. A well-prepared landscape can reduce damage, prevent flooding, and minimize downtime after a storm.
Here’s how you can hurricane-proof your commercial landscape before the next major storm system arrives.
Conduct a Hurricane Readiness Assessment
Preparation begins with awareness. A comprehensive landscape assessment helps identify vulnerabilities such as:
• Trees with weak limbs or poor root structure
• Low-lying areas prone to flooding
• Loose groundcover or debris-prone areas
• Inefficient drainage systems
LMC Houston provides property inspections and landscape evaluations to help clients proactively address these risks.
Tree Trimming and Canopy Management
Overgrown or unstable trees pose one of the greatest threats during a storm. High winds can cause branches to break off and damage structures, power lines, or vehicles. Worse, entire trees may topple if their root systems are compromised.
Strategic pruning not only helps trees withstand high winds but also reduces the risk of damage. Remove dead or overextended branches and thin the canopy to allow wind to pass through more easily. LMC Houston’s tree care team ensures safe, professional pruning tailored to each species and site conditions.
Check Drainage and Irrigation Systems
Heavy rains and storm surges can overwhelm poorly functioning drainage systems. Make sure all landscape drains, swales, and gutters are clear of debris and functioning correctly.
Smart irrigation systems should be powered down during storms to prevent electrical damage and unnecessary water waste. After the storm, these systems can be critical in helping your landscape recover. LMC technicians can help calibrate your system to adapt to changing weather patterns and provide post-storm irrigation support.
Reinforce Mulch and Groundcover
Loose mulch and gravel can become projectiles in strong winds. Consider switching to heavier mulch options, such as shredded hardwood, and avoid large decorative rocks near windows and entrances.
Planting low-growing groundcovers, like Asiatic jasmine or mondo grass, can help anchor soil, reduce erosion, and hold moisture after the storm passes.
Secure or Remove Outdoor Fixtures
Outdoor furniture, signage, and landscape ornaments should be secured or removed before a storm. These items can easily become airborne, causing damage to people or property. Make sure walkways, patios, and entry areas are clear and that fixtures are designed to withstand high winds.
Develop a Post-Storm Recovery Plan
Your landscape team should be prepared to respond quickly after the storm with services such as:
• Debris removal
• Turf restoration
• Irrigation repair
• Replacement plantings
A prompt response minimizes disruption, improves safety, and gets your property back to business faster. LMC Houston offers emergency recovery services and can mobilize quickly after severe weather events.
Final Thoughts: Be Proactive, Not Reactive
In Houston, hurricanes are not a matter of if, but when. Proactively reinforcing your commercial landscape can make a significant difference in how your property weathers the storm.
Partner with LMC Houston for a full landscape hurricane readiness plan customized to your site. We’ll help safeguard your property, protect your investment, and give you peace of mind this hurricane season.
