Wind Resistant Trees – Choosing Trees For Windy Spots
Like cold and heat, wind can be a big factor in the life and health of trees. If you live in an area where winds are strong, you’ll have to be selective about the trees you plant. There is a wide variety of wind resistant trees available and you are likely to find trees for windy spots no matter your climate. Read on for more information on trees that can tolerate wind.
Trees Resistant to Wind
Wind isn’t particular about climate. There are high wind areas in places with mild winters and hurricanes also blow through in humid, subtropical climates. Even northern states can experience winds that threaten trees.
If you live where the wind can be strong, you’ll need to plant wind hardy trees. Trees that can tolerate wind have a better chance of lasting out the storm or hurricane and also protecting your home from damage.
Wind Hardy Trees
When you go out shopping for wind resistant trees, keep in mind that even trees that can tolerate wind are not completely wind proof. How a tree tolerates wind depends on the species, but also on the level of wind and environmental conditions.
Some species of trees are more likely to survive wind damage than others. Some of the most wind resistant trees are:
- Sand live oak (Quercus germinata)
- Southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)
- Live oak (Quercus virginiana)
Other good trees for windy areas include:
- Crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica)
- Bald cypress (Taxodium distichum)
- Varieties of holly (Ilex spp.)
- Cabbage palm (Sabal palmetto)
In areas like coastal California, you might plant Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa), olive trees (Olea europaea), or native strawberry trees (Arbutus unedo).
Gardening tips, videos, info and more delivered right to your inbox!
Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter today and receive a free download of our DIY eBook "Bring Your Garden Indoors: 13 DIY Projects For Fall And Winter".
Trees for Windy Spots
When you plant wind resistant trees, it’s important to provide excellent cultural care. Offer the trees the best soil and sun exposure for the species you are planting as well as regular and adequate irrigation. This will keep the trees healthy.
You also want to keep in mind a few other considerations. Trees resistant to wind need lots of root space to remain anchored, so don’t squeeze them into tiny areas. Many trees require pruning to take out branches that might break and develop a strong trunk structure.
Studies have found that native trees tend to be more resistant to wind than exotic ornamentals. A grouping of wind hardy trees will stand up to bigger blasts than a single specimen, no matter how wind resistant.
Teo Spengler has been gardening for 30 years. She is a docent at the San Francisco Botanical Garden. Her passion is trees, 250 of which she has planted on her land in France.
-
Climate Change And Pests: Do Warmer Winters Mean More Pests?
Warmer climates can result in an increase of some pests and decrease of others, which isn’t always a good thing. Here's how to protect your garden.
By Bonnie L. Grant
-
What Is A Water Wick? How To Use One To Keep Houseplants Hydrated While You’re Away
A water wick for plants will give you a worry-free break if you need to leave your plant babies for a while. It’s easy to set up and pretty much runs itself.
By Amy Grant
-
Best Trees For Carbon Sequestration And Climate Change
Let’s keep planting trees. They are our best bet for capturing carbon and may help with our global warming issues.
By Teo Spengler
-
7 Invasive Trees You Should Never Plant In Your Yard Or Garden
What are some invasive trees you should never plant in your yard? Click here to find out.
By Teo Spengler
-
How Close Can You Plant A Tree To A Stump?
Looking to plant new trees near old stumps or where stumps have been removed? Click here to learn how.
By Teo Spengler
-
Messiest Trees That Drop Debris Everywhere
Want to know which trees will create the biggest messes in your home landscape? Click here to find out.
By Amy Grant
-
How To Get Rid Of Tree Sprouts In The Yard From Nearby Trees
Learn the simple way to keep pesky tree seedlings in your lawn from becoming saplings.
By Teo Spengler
-
7 Common Tree Care Mistakes That Kill Trees
Are you accidentally killing your tree? It's easier than you think, if you're committing one of these common mistakes. Click here for more.
By Teo Spengler
-
How To Tell How Old A Tree Is
Ever wondered how to calculate the age of a tree? Click here to learn all about it.
By Teo Spengler
-
When To Remove Tree Stakes From Saplings
A newly planted tree may grow strong when it’s staked, but don’t forget to remove the stakes when it’s stable.
By Teo Spengler