Plant A Tree!

Plant A Tree!

In this 3-part series, Greening Your Home, you’ll learn ways to make your home more energy-efficient while also saving you money in the long run. Caring about the environment and being “green” can be easier than you think as a homeowner. You can start today!

Here’s the final article and it’s all about how to plant trees in your yard.

Did you know that by adding a tree to your yard, you can increase your property value and save on energy costs?

But maybe you don’t know which trees to plant…

No worries! I found two great articles to help you navigate what types of trees do best in the Houston area.  Check those out here:

6 Best Trees for Houston

10 Best Small Trees for Houston

Why Trees Help Your Home

• Trees boost curb appeal. The presence of larger trees in yards and as street trees can add 3 to 15 percent to home values throughout neighborhoods.

• Trees can shade buildings, windows and air-conditioning units. Homes with well-situated trees can reduce air conditioning needs by 30 percent and save 20 to 50 percent in heating costs.

• Trees can help with water drainage.

Where to start & things to consider:

• Measure Your Space –
  • Did you know that tag on the tree that tells you how big your tree or shrub will grow?  Consider this when planning where to put your tree so that you don’t have to worry about constant pruning or unwanted crowded roots.

• Check Your Soil –
  • Soil is an important piece to a successfully growing a tree…especially if you plan to plant a fruit tree.  Fruit trees thrive best in well-drained soil with a sandy, loamy texture. If there’s too much clay, or too many rocks, it can be difficult for a fruit tree to flourish.

• Determine Exposure –
  • Also found on the tag is the amount of sun exposure the tree with thrive in.  Before planting watch the area you are considering to determine how much sun through the day that spot receives.

• Plant With Your End View in Mind –
  • Even if you only plant one or two small trees now, plant with the overall complete vision in mind.  Leaving enough space to allow trees to grow and mature while adding more trees in the future. 

• Be A Good Neighbor –
  • Trees that drop berries or messy seedpods may not be the best choice near your fence or neighbor’s driveway. And expect your tree to be pruned from the other side if it begins to hang over your neighbor’s yard, something you have little to no control over.

There are many benefits to adding trees to your yard.  I can’t wait to see what you come up with!

Happy planting!