Protecting Your Cannabis Plants During a Hurricane

The Coriolis acceleration assures hurricanes North the of the equator, spin counter-clockwise. Most hurricanes in Hawaii come from the South across Hawaii Nei. Wind is extremely variable during storms in Hawaii and is largely dependent on the geography of the area you live. Regardless, know where the prevailing winds will blow and place your plants accordingly.

Use your favorite weather map to estimate wind direction and speed for your area. If you cannot bring your plants indoors, consider the following ideas and tips:

Prepare your plants for high winds:

• Wind is not the only consideration. Be sure to remove any objects that might fly into your plants ie; lawn furniture, garbage cans, other plants etc.
• Trim off some branches allowing wind to blow through, and at the same time you’re pruning for more growth to take place.
• Water less often but thoroughly soak it. The water penetrates deep into the soil allowing roots to search deep for water. This will help form deep roots to hold itself up from high wind without falling over.

Adding Windbreakers

• FOR LIGHTER WINDS – Box in your plants with four tall fence. Add reinforcement to the fence so it does not get knocked over. Add some small holes on the fence will defuse the wind also allow some air to pass through. Partially open fences, with few inches a part are better than than solid fences or walls.
• Build up the soil or mulch around the base of your plants. Depending on their height, it might be helpful to repot or create mounds around the bottom half of your plants.

Secure your plants

• When you can’t move your plants, secure them in place. Put a large stake in the middle and tie the main stock to it for security.
• Add smaller stakes around the tree with a rope to the main stock to hold it in place 360 degrees.
• Tie some strings around the bottom of the main branches, you should only need 2 probably. Put one opposite of the side that it tends to lean to.

Cannabis plants thrive in a certain amount of wind, even constant wind. But too much wind stunt their growth and all Cannabis plants should be protected during various stages of growth from high winds. The main idea here is to avoid running out in the eye of the storm to make adjustments. Planning is key. Don’t wait until the last minute. Stay Safe!

Special thanks for members of the 420 Magazine forum, the weather underground, ilovemarijuana.com and Hawaii Civil Defense for their Cannabis support.