UOG Horizons: Trim the risk: Tips for proactive, pre-typhoon tree management

7/25/2025

PRUNING: University of Guam Land Grant extension horticulturalist and arborist Roland Quitugua prunes a branch on a mountain apple tree to increase airflow and reduce weight on the tree in preparation for typhoon season. Photo courtesy of the University of Guam

mountain apple tree before and after pruning

BEFORE AND AFTER:A mountain apple tree on the University of Guam campus before pruning (left) and after pruning (right). Pruning steps prior to typhoon season should include thinning a tree’s canopy size, reducing its overall height and crown size, and removing dead or weakened branches. Photo courtesy of the University of Guam

QUITUGUA:University of Guam Land Grant extension horticulturalist and arborist Roland Quitugua.

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In Guam and across the typhoon-prone Western Pacific, the lush greenery that defines our tropical landscape can quickly turn into a source of destruction when typhoons hit. Tall trees become hazards - falling on homes, blocking roads and impeding emergency responders, and damaging utility lines. Fortunately, one of the most effective strategies for reducing typhoon-related damage is simple and practical: managing tree size with proper pruning and maintenance.

University of Guam

Unibetsedȧt Guåhan
UOG Station
Mangilao, Guam 96913

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The University of Guam is a U.S. Land Grant and Sea Grant Institution accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. UOG is an equal opportunity provider and employer committed to our island wisdom values of inadahi yan inagofli'e: respect, compassion, and community.

UOG Horizons: Trim the risk: Tips for proactive, pre-typhoon tree management