Choose plants that resist cyclone damage

 

Choose plants for your garden that resist cyclone damage

Cyclonic winds cause much havoc to vegetation. Some of the most spectacular scenes following cyclones are those showing widespread destruction of banana, paw paw, or avocado tree plantations. No tree will always stand up to cyclonic strength winds as there are many factors their influence their ability to survive destruction, but some are more resilient than others.

Soil moisture, wind intensity and duration, and the plant's root system all determine how well a tree performs during severe weather. Some plants just aren't meant to survive Queensland's harsh climate. Don't be deterred from planting trees and shrubs, because you might enjoy them for 20-30 years without any detrimental effect. Shallow root systems, snapped trunks, termite damage, old age, soil erosion, and top-heavy plants are the most common issues in cyclone regions.

Plants can protect as well as cause damage. As long as you choose wind-resistant trees and shrubs recommended by experts, you won't have to go without, so choose wisely to minimise any damage and flow-on costs.

Characteristics of suitable trees and shrubs:

  • Good flexibility such palms with thin flexible stems
  • Well-developed root system - preferably ones with a good taproot
  • Ease of defoliation (ability to lose leaves quickly and little resistance to the wind)
  • Plants with fine leaves offer less resistance to winds
  • Open branch system that allows wind to pass easily (Terminalia and Milky Pines)
  • Trees without a dense top-heavy canopy or crown
  • Healthy trees with vigorous growth and no termites