(Arbor Day Foundation) https://www.arborday.org/trees/index-benefits.cfm?TrackingID=404
Its that time of year again. With July almost upon us, it's impossible to deny that the Maryland summer is officially here, bringing with it the familiar beautiful sunny days, peaceful firefly nights, and intense afternoon heat. Here in Maryland’s hot and humid climate, homeowners know how easy it can be to go way over budget trying to keep their homes cool.
It's no secret that trees benefit the environment and our health, but not everyone considers the financial benefit they can provide homeowners with. Homeowners looking to go-green while saving money--or just save money!--will be happy to note that there is a simple way to save: plant more trees.
Trees especially are highly beneficial to both the environment and citizens. A properly planted tree can save a homeowner about 15% to 17% on their energy bills, while simultaneously serving the local ecosystem. Not only that, but native plants-especially trees- can also help reduce noise and pollution from lawn maintenance like lawn mowers. Many, especially long-living trees like maples or oaks, actually store greenhouse gasses, especially carbon dioxide.
It may seem like a long-term investment now, but the benefits of just a few years are incredible. As the proverb goes; “The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” Thankfully it doesn't even take 20 years to feel the benefits! The Arbor Day Foundation reports that by planting just one tree, energy bills in a typical home should drop 3% in 5 years, 12% in 15 years, and only improve from there. That may seem slow, but consider the other benefits to health and wellbeing, even aesthetic. Not only can trees improve health by purifying the air and help cut energy bills, but planting a tree actually raises property value. See the Arbor Day Foundation Website to see more benefits homeowners can cash in on by planting trees.
For more info on native landscaping, check out our blog on planting native species.
Heather Merrifield
Summer 2019 Stewardship Outings Intern
Sierra Club MD Chapter
stewardship.outings@mdsierra.org
Sources
https://www.voanews.com/usa/homeowners-plant-trees-help-energy-conservation
https://www.arborday.org/trees/benefits.cfm