Modern foundation construction tends to leave the soil in and around the foundation very dry and compacted, virtually eliminating both moisture and air. The good news is that this type of environment is not at all desirable for tree roots. …
Can more trees and shrubs in urban areas increase crime by giving criminals a place to hide?
Many people fear approaching densely vegetated areas around urban parks or in parking lots at night, or share a perception that trees and shrubs might give criminals a hiding spot.
Kuo and Sullivan (2001) examined evidence from past research and …
Establishing Trees for Energy Conservation
How does urban forestry relate to carbon sequestration?
The urban forestry profession is the care and maintenance of trees within our communities.
By maintaining trees, we help to extend their lifespans. During a tree’s life, it continually takes in carbon in the form of carbon dioxide. With water …
When I plant my new tree, do I need to stake it?
When properly planted, high-quality nursery trees should not require staking, unless severe site conditions make them vulnerable to uprooting or injury. Trees transplanted to steep slopes or windy sites may require staking to keep them from uprooting. Trees in high-use …
How does reducing stormwater runoff save energy?
Stormwater runoff is a significantly growing source of pollution to our streams and rivers and is a large contributor to local flooding events. In urban areas, energy is required to purify drinking water, maintain or update infrastructure used to control …
What can I do in my community to promote energy conservation with trees?
There are many ways you can help promote energy conservation with trees in your own community. A great place to start is with your own neighborhood or homeowners association, if you have one. Seek out experts who can provide your …
How do trees save energy in the winter?
Winter sun helps warm things up so, when deciduous trees loose their leaves, more sunshine and solar radiation are cast on homes and buildings. Money and energy are saved by increasing warming in and around structures. Savings also come from …
I'm planting a tree and shrub windbreak to shelter my home in winter. What should I take into account in locating and designing it?
First, the windbreak should be located upwind from prevailing winter winds. If most of your winter wind comes from the north, then locate the windbreak to the north of your home. Also, wind will tend to curl in around the …
Who is responsible for taking care of the tree in front of my house?
Rights and responsibilities for trees in front of houses vary across states and municipalities. Residential yards abutting public roadways are often overlain by a right-of-way adjacent to the pavement that permits the municipality or state to maintain the road and …