Why plant trees? There are so many answers to that question: shade, privacy, energy savings, biodiversity, air quality, water conservation, and more. When homeowners plant a tree or small forest, they may be growing a little money and well-being as well.
Trees Add Value to Your Home
There are multiple groups out there who have published studies about the impact trees can have on the value of your home. The Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers estimates that a mature tree can add $1000 to $10,000 to your appraised value. The USDA Forest Service says a mature tree can add an average of 10% to the value of a property. A study by an arborist at the University of Washington found that large tree-lined streets increase a home’s value from 3-15%. The stats agree with each other- trees add value to a home.
Trees Enhance Curb Appeal
If you’re shopping for a home, the first thing a buyer notices when pulling up to a house is the curb appeal, and they begin to assess the property while still sitting in the car. A front yard with a mature tree or two is always more welcoming, inviting, and desirable. And they create a perception of the stability and longevity of the property.
Shade Reduces Electric Usage
Several years ago, I planted a tree on the west side of my home where the blazing sun came through a kitchen window late in the day. Even with a heavy light-blocking shade on the window, cooking in the summer was not fun. It is now tall enough to block the sun, keeping the whole room cooler. The Center for Urban Forest Research says if you plant a tree on the west side of your home, you’ll see a 3% reduction in energy bills within 5 years and a 12% reduction within 15 years. Even if energy prices continue to rise (as we know they will), you’ll at least keep pace with the costs.
Trees Improve Well-Being
Trees can make you healthier. Just looking at trees can lower blood pressure and muscle tension. Trees can improve your mental health. Trees invite wildlife to your yard. I dare you to be grumpy when birds sing their hearts out in the early morning. And, as I watch every tree I’ve planted get bigger, there is an accomplished feeling of “Wow, I planted that!”
Trees Leave a Legacy
Finally, plant a tree for the future, not just yours but everyone’s. The author Nelson Henderson wrote, “The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit.”
So, what, when, and how should you plant?
The University of Florida has an excellent guide for planting and caring for trees.
I have purchased trees from several independent nurseries in the area. All of these nurseries give excellent advice and will arrange to have the tree delivered and planted if you need that service.
