Tropical areas are perfect for relaxation and rest, but they are also prone to high winds from tropical storms and hurricanes. These storms cause immense damage to cities, and while homeowners can take some precautions to protect their home, landscapes often suffer the most, as plants are exposed to fierce winds and rising water levels.
Design a storm-proof landscape
When designing your landscape, it is crucial to consider whether you live in a region frequently hit by storms during hurricane season, such as the Southeast United States or Caribbean islands. Palm trees are an excellent choice for these areas because they have evolved to withstand strong winds, even hurricane-force winds! The Sabal Palmetto is the most hurricane resistant palm species, known to survive winds up to 145 miles per hour! It is no wonder Sabal Palmettos seem to be everywhere in Florida, and in increasing amounts in Georgia.
Sabal Palmetto
The Sabal Palmetto has three major physical adaptations that allow it to survive strong storms.
1. A powerful and flexible stem
The Sabal Palmetto´s palm trunk is both strong and flexible. Stem flexibility is possible thanks to the absence of secondary xylem tissue (found in most trees). In conditions where branches might snap under pressure exerted by heavy winds, Sabal palmettos bend up to 50 degrees without breaking! Despite this astonishing flexibility, the primary xylem tissue present in the stem ensures the palm remains sturdy and strong, and transports necessary nutrients from the base of the palm to the crown and fronds all while providing an outer layer of protection.
2. Stable root system
The Sabal Palmetto´s fibrous root system acts like a natural anchor. Its roots extend outward, forming a dense carpet just below the surface, typically no more than three feet deep. The vast quantity of lighter roots give the palm exceptional stability by providing a wide support base. Even if some roots are damaged, the remaining network holds firm, making it incredibly difficult for storms to uproot this resilient palm.
2. Resistant fronds
The Sabal Palm´s fronds are key to its survival during storms. Acting like feathers, they shed water and minimize the weight of heavy rain on the plant. The space between its palm leafs allows wind to pass through, and the base of the frond is flexible enough to allow it to bend significantly without breaking under pressure.
Other considerations
In order for a palm tree to protect itself from high winds during a storm, it needs to be properly rooted and established in its place. Recently planted palm trees are unlikely to survive storms. Additionally, Sabal palm trees may lose all or most of their fronds from wind damage, but if the heart is healthy, they will grow back eventually. If you want to mix your palm tree landscape with trees, consider some wind resistant options. Tree species that are known to withstand strong winds are Oak trees, Live Oaks, Magnolias and Maple trees. Other palm trees known to stand strong in the face of tropical storms are Royal Palms and Washingtonia Palms.
Sabal Palmettos are #1 in wind resistance
If you are planning a storm ready landscape, Sabal Palmettos are your best bet for standing strong against hurricanes and unexpected gusts of wind. Apart from being beautiful, they create a long lasting tropical environment. For the highest quality palms, be sure to source them from trusted suppliers like Atlanta Palms.
