Florida's Weather and Your Trees: A Month-by-Month Care Calendar

Florida's hurricane season (June through November) puts real strain on trees. Knowing when to call a professional can protect your home.

If you live in Pinellas County, you already know Florida's weather doesn't play by the same rules as other states. From hurricane season to occasional winter freezes, knowing when to prune, plant, or call in a professional can make all the difference for your trees' health, and your safety.

January to February: The Quiet Season (With Caveats)

What's happening: Trees are in their slowest growth period. Deciduous natives like Gumbo Limbo may drop leaves.

Your to-do list:

• Do structural pruning on most species (they're dormant, so wounds heal cleanly)

• Remove dead or damaged branches from storms

• Check for pest damage that may have developed over winter

• Plan any new plantings for late February

Call Anthony's Tree and Stump Service for: Large tree pruning, structural assessments, or if you notice cracks, leans, or fungal growth.

March to May: Growth Season Begins

What's happening: Trees burst into new growth. This is prime planting time.

Your to-do list:

• Plant new native trees (they'll establish before summer heat)

• Apply mulch, 2 to 3 inches, away from the trunk

• Water newly planted trees deeply 1 to 2 times per week

• Watch for early pest activity (aphids, scale insects)

Call Anthony's Tree and Stump Service for: Health assessments if trees show unusual yellowing or thinning canopies.

June to November: Hurricane Season

What's happening: Peak storm risk, intense heat, and heavy afternoon thunderstorms, running officially from June 1 through November 30.

Your to-do list:

• Before June 1: Have large trees assessed and pruned to reduce wind resistance

• Keep canopies thinned, but don't over-prune (trees need leaves for photosynthesis)

• Water deeply during dry spells (established natives may not need this)

• After every storm: Walk your property and note any new damage

Call Anthony's Tree and Stump Service for: Pre-season assessments, post-storm damage evaluation, or any branches near power lines or structures. If a storm leaves a tree down or leaning on your home, our emergency tree service team is ready to respond.

After a major storm, walk your property and document any new damage before cleanup begins.

December: Prep for the Quiet Season

What's happening: Growth slows. Occasional cold fronts may bring near-freezing temperatures.

Your to-do list:

• Protect young or sensitive trees if a hard freeze is forecast

• Do final cleanup of storm debris

• Review your tree health from the year and plan any winter pruning or removals

Call Anthony's Tree and Stump Service for: Year-end health assessments and planning for major work in January and February.

The Golden Rule

When in doubt, especially before hurricane season or after major storms, get a professional assessment. An arboristt can spot structural issues you might miss and recommend preventive work that could save your trees, and your roof.

Coming Up Next

Join us for our next post, "DIY Tree Maintenance: What Homeowners Can Safely Do (and What to Leave to the Pros)," where we'll give you a clear checklist of tasks you can handle yourself versus jobs that call for an arborist's expertise.

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