How Shade Trees Benefit Us
With the weather heating up, we are reminded how amazing shade trees are for giving us a much-needed break from heat and sun. Not only does a large shade tree, such as maple or birch, add beauty to a yard, but it can offer health and economic benefits to us as well.
Shade trees can cool your home
When trees are planted in an optimal spot to add shade to a home, it is able to remain cooler than when it has nothing to block the strong rays. Trees planted in various areas of your yard can all be beneficial, however, trees planted west create shadows to block the sun when it’s the hottest, in the afternoon. While having sunlight shine through windows and into your home can be nice, if that is the case all around your home, your house’s temperature will increase which can rack up your utility bill. Trees that provide shade can be economically beneficial to you, especially during the hot summer months by managing the cost of keeping your home cool.
Get more use out of your yard during the warm days
Being outside with your family and friends during the warm months can be so enjoyable and a great way to connect. Whether that be picnics on your lawn, playing fetch with your furry friend, reading a book, or having friends over for a barbecue, the fresh air brings so much joy. However, some days can be so warm that the heat makes it uncomfortable to be outside for longer than a few minutes. When you have a beautiful tree that creates shade, you are able to spend more time spent enjoying the outdoors on your property with your loved ones.
Shade trees help protect our skin
Even though the fresh, warm air feels amazing on our skin after a cold and wet winter, we know that too much sun exposure can be damaging to our skin. The best thing about shade is that it allows us to still enjoy the warmth and being outside without putting ourselves at risk of the ultraviolet rays that can be dangerous and even lead to cancer. Having trees with a good amount of foliage is an awesome way to incorporate a naturally shaded area in your yard.
Increase home value
Trees with beautiful foliage that are well maintained can increase a home’s value. Curb appeal is a large factor when it comes to a home’s value, and many buyers are drawn to the natural beauty that trees with a large canopy bring.
How to Care for Shade Trees
In order to get the most out of your shade trees, it’s critical to take care of them and keep them healthy. A few ways to do this are:
Make sure they are getting enough water, especially during the summer when a drought may occur.
Watch out for pest infestation and have the tree treated if detected.
Regularly prune the tree to remove deadwood and clean the crown.
If you have a shade tree on your property that you love and have questions or concerns about its health,schedule a no-cost consultation online or with one of our field representatives to have one of our local, professional arborists consult with you on the best way to proceed for your tree's health and how you can provide optimal shade on your property.