Trees too close to your home can produce unwanted shade that will decrease sunlight, prevent ice from melting on pavements, and increase heating costs during the winter. To combat these issues, plant deciduous trees that lose their leaves and allow …
What is the minimum number of trees needed in my landscape to provide energy conservation benefits?
Each yard is unique in its orientation to the summer sun, winter winds and spaces available for planting trees. In some situations, your neighbor’s trees may be providing your property with shade, cooling effects or blocking cold winds. In this …
Is there a specific type of tree that is good to plant for energy conservation?
Different types of trees can help to conserve energy in different ways. Deciduous trees (trees that lose all of their leaves each fall) save energy in summer by shading houses, paved areas, and air conditioners. Small deciduous trees and …
How does urban forestry relate to energy conservation?
When strategically placed, trees can conserve energy by reducing energy demands. Trees are great evapotranspiration “engines,” literally cooling the air around them by absorbing energy as the water in leaves is converted from liquid to gas.
Trees cast shade on …
Windbreaks for Energy Conservation
Effective use of trees and shrubs as a windbreak and area screen.
People go to great lengths to conserve energy in this era of tight budgets and environmental awareness. However, many do not realize that the simple act of planting …
How close can I plant shrubs to my air conditioning unit?
Close enough for shade, but far enough for free air movement and easy access is the common recommendation. It may be easier to get shade on the AC unit with a tree but if a shrub is choosen, the bigger …
What is a microclimate?
A microclimate is created in a relatively small area where environmental conditions may be warmer or cooler than in the general surrounding area. For example, trees or buildings can affect a microclimate by providing shade, resulting in cooler temperatures …