Be Prepared for Storm Season: Seasonal Tree Care Tips for Gold Coast Suburbs

Storm season on the Gold Coast starts in November and is typically over by the end of April. This season is a time when high winds, torrential rains, and occasional wild weather events that test the strength of every backyard tree.

In Nerang, Ashmore, Helensvale, and other well-populated leafy suburbs — proactive Gold Coast tree care is crucial to protect your home, your neighbours, and your peace of mind.

Why tree care on the Gold Coast matters

The Gold Coast is known for its lush greenery, however, during storms poorly maintained trees can become major hazard. Falling limbs, uprooted trunks, and weakened branches can down powerlines, damage property, and lead to accidents and injury.

Preparing in advance not only prevents these risks, it also extends the life and health of your trees.

Inspect your trees every Spring

Visually inspect your trees before the first storm arrives. Look for:

• Cracks in trunks or large limbs

• Dead or dying branches

• Leaning trees with exposed roots

• Fungal growth or decay at the base

These signs suggest structural weaknesses. Get in touch with us at The French Crew. Our qualified Gold Coast arborist can assess and address these issues before they become serious problems.

Pruning for safety and structure

Remove overhanging branches — especially those above driveways, fences, or roofs — to reduce the chance of storm-related damage.

Over-pruning (in other words, removing too much) can stress the tree and make it more susceptible to disease. This a common result of many DIY efforts.

Professional tree lopping ensures safe, balanced canopy reduction.

Choose smart plants

Avoid invasive roots that could damage paths or foundations. Choose plants that won’t outgrow your space, such as these drought-tolerant natives:

• Lomandra for texture

• Westringia for compact hedging

• Kangaroo Paw for height and colour

To reduce maintenance, group your plants by their water needs.

Secure young or vulnerable trees

Newly planted or immature trees will not have had time to establish deep root systems. Staking them with flexible ties will provide support without restricting natural movement. This prevents wind rock, which weakens root anchorage over time.

Mulch to retain moisture and strengthen roots

Apply a 5–10cm layer of organic mulch around the tree’s base, keeping it clear of the trunk. This helps:

• Retain soil moisture

• Suppress weeds

• Regulate soil temperature

• Promote healthy root growth

Do not pile mulch directly against the trunk (“mulch volcano”) because this would invite pests and disease.

Don’t forget palms and ornamental trees

Thin out dead palm fronds and remove heavy seed clusters before storm season.

Small trees and ornamentals should also be trimmed where they encroach on eaves, gutters, or fences.

Emergency preparedness: know who to call

Have your local tree care experts on standby because nature sometimes wins despite your best efforts. The French Crew offers emergency Gold Coast tree removal and post-storm clean-up to help you recover safely.

Prevention is cheaper than repair

Caring for your trees before the storm season arrives is a well-considered safety strategy.

Trees that are properly maintained in preparation, will grow stronger, withstand heavy weather better, and protect the value of your property. Rather than being too stressed to cope and becoming dangerous debris, they'll be a more reliable source of shade and beauty.

Call The French Crew to have your trees professionally inspected, pruned, mulched, and prepared for the upcoming storm season.

With our expert hands-on services, your trees stand a better chance when the next storm rolls through.