How to Deal with Lawn Damage After a Hurricane

Hurricanes have always been a part of life in Florida, but in recent years, their frequency and strength have noticeably increased. With more powerful storms sweeping through the state, lawns often bear the brunt of heavy winds, flooding, and debris. For seniors, dealing with the aftermath of a hurricane can feel overwhelming. That’s why knowing how to restore your lawn effectively and safely is key.

In this blog, we’ll offer tips to help you recover your lawn after a hurricane and explore why hurricane preparedness is becoming even more important for Florida homeowners.

The Increasing Impact of Hurricanes in Florida

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Atlantic hurricane season has become more intense and unpredictable in recent years. From 1980 to 2000, the average number of named storms per year was 12, but since 2020, that number has surged to 19 storms annually. Additionally, the storms are becoming stronger, with Category 4 and 5 hurricanes happening more frequently. In 2022 alone, hurricanes caused over $116 billion in damages across the U.S., much of it in Florida.

For homeowners, these storms bring the risk of property damage, including harm to lawns and landscaping. While cleaning up after a storm can seem like a daunting task, addressing your lawn damage sooner rather than later is vital for long-term recovery.

Steps to Restore Your Lawn After a Hurricane

Clear Debris Safely and Gradually: After a hurricane, the first step is to clear any branches, leaves, or other debris that may have scattered across your lawn. For seniors, it’s important to pace yourself and avoid overexertion. Consider using lightweight tools or enlisting help for larger debris.
- Tip: If large branches or downed trees are a concern, hire a professional to avoid injury.
Address Flood Damage: Excess water from hurricane-related flooding can suffocate grass and promote fungal growth. Once the standing water has receded, assess the lawn for signs of damage. Aeration can help improve soil drainage and allow the roots to recover.
- Tip: Look for areas with yellowing grass, which can indicate water damage or root rot.
Remove Salt and Contaminants: Hurricanes often bring in saltwater, especially if you live near the coast. Saltwater can damage your grass by drawing moisture out of the roots. To counteract this, water your lawn deeply once flooding has subsided to help flush out any salt.
- Tip: Apply gypsum to help neutralize any salt content left in the soil.
Reassess Turf Health: After clearing debris and ensuring the lawn is drained, check the health of your grass. Hurricanes can cause significant turf damage, especially to fragile root systems. In some cases, overseeding or replacing sod may be necessary to repair large patches of dead grass.
- Tip: For best results, consult with a lawn care professional to determine whether aeration, reseeding, or other treatments are needed.
Fertilize with Care: Avoid applying fertilizer too soon after a hurricane, as the soil needs time to dry out. Fertilizing immediately after a storm can cause further damage if the soil is too saturated. Wait a week or two, then apply a balanced fertilizer to help your grass recover its strength.
- Tip: Organic or slow-release fertilizers work best in the recovery phase to avoid overwhelming the stressed grass.
Monitor for Pests and Diseases: Hurricanes create the perfect conditions for pests and diseases to thrive, especially if there’s been prolonged standing water. Watch for signs of fungal growth, such as discolored patches or mushrooms, and address any infestations early.
- Tip: Contact a lawn care service if you notice an influx of pests like chinch bugs, grubs, or sod webworms after a storm.
Trim and Prune Damaged Trees: Trees and shrubs often suffer damage during hurricanes, with broken limbs posing a risk to your lawn’s health. Removing damaged branches ensures that your trees can continue growing and reduces the risk of disease spreading through the weakened wood.
- Tip: Hire a certified arborist for large tree trimming jobs to ensure safety and prevent injury.

Why Hurricanes Are Becoming More Intense

Research from NOAA and the National Hurricane Center indicates that warmer ocean temperatures due to climate change are contributing to the increased intensity of hurricanes. According to NOAA, for every 1°C rise in sea surface temperature, the potential for hurricanes to increase in intensity by 10% is significant. This means more storms reaching Category 3, 4, and 5 status with devastating winds and rainfall. As these storms become more frequent and severe, it’s more important than ever for homeowners to be prepared.

Professional Lawn Care Can Help You Recover Faster

Recovering from hurricane damage can be physically and emotionally exhausting, especially for seniors. That’s why professional lawn care services can be an invaluable resource. At Deans Services, we’ve been helping homeowners in Clermont, Okahumpka, and surrounding communities restore their lawns after hurricanes for over 44 years. Our customized lawn care plans are designed to repair storm damage, promote healthy growth, and protect your lawn from future weather challenges.