Trees are necessary for human life because they aid in the production of oxygen and stabilize the soil so that future plants can grow and thrive. While those are their most important functions, there are many other reasons why you should plant more trees in your own backyard. Below are the biggest perks and advantages.
1. Adds More Privacy
One of the main reasons that people plant trees in their yard is to provide additional privacy. The fuller your trees, the harder it is for prying eyes to see into your yard and the windows of your house. There are several strategies that you can try when planting trees for year-round privacy. You can start by planting a line of trees along the perimeter of your backyard so you are covered from all sides. Some people like to pair that tree line with plant-covered latticework. You could even plant a bald cypress right in front of your kitchen window.
On top of shielding your home from prying eyes, trees also help to reduce loud traffic noise. You can block out the world and have your own private oasis.
2. Cuts Down on Utility Costs
Even if your primary reason for planting trees is for the privacy aspect, you will find that you also get many other benefits along the way. Trees can even help you cut down on air conditioning use, reducing your utility bills.
Trees offer an incredible source of shade, especially if you are looking to cool off an outdoor living space. Blocking out the sun all day can help your home feel exponentially cooler, and you may not have the need to turn on the air conditioning as often. If you are planning to plant trees, then make it a point to grow them on the east, south, and west sides of your house. That way, they will block the sun during the morning, mid-day, and afternoon.
In addition to saving yourself some money, when you use your air conditioning less often you are also eliminating the need for the energy company to burn fossil fuels. This is yet another way that planting trees helps the planet.
3. Eliminates Unnecessary UV Rays
In addition to thwarting prying eyes and heat, trees can also block your family and your home from harmful UV rays that come down from the sun. There are many pros and cons to UV rays. On the good side, they help to accelerate vitamin D production, and time spent out in the sunshine can also elevate your mood and help you feel more energized.
On the downside, looking toward the sun for too long can cause those UV rays to damage your eyes. This can lead to dangerous eye conditions, like macular degeneration. Constant UV rays can also damage your furniture by breaking down the chemicals within, causing fading and unwanted color changes. Needless to say, it is a good idea to avoid constant UV rays by planting a few trees.
4. Improves Curb Appeal
While they offer many health and energy benefits, trees can also help to beautify your yard. Trees and plants add color to your home’s exterior, giving your property a more complete look. This improves your curb appeal and boosts any outdoor spaces you enjoy.
If you are planning to sell your home in the future, then an appealing exterior can increase home value. This boosts your chances of attracting buyers and helps you make more money during a home sale. That’s because people are more inclined to want to see a house that is inviting from the inside out rather than visit a property with no trees, dead bushes, and unattractive landscaping.
5. Improves Your Mental Health
Just like a hike or a leisurely walk through a forest can help your mental health, more trees in your yard can give you a boost. People tend to feel more positive around greenery because it brings your mind back to a more natural place where you can be at ease. Plus, fresh air improves cognitive function — and trees provide fresh air. Clean air is also important because air pollution can impact the emotional development of the youngsters in your home.
6. Creates a Home for Wildlife
If you love animals and wildlife, then consider planting some trees and creating a habitat that they can enjoy all summer long. Trees can create a home for many critters, including squirrels, birds, and other small animals. If you love to wake up to the sound of birds chirping, then you can also add a birdhouse to one or more of the trees so they can build a nest and raise their babies in your backyard. Plantlife can also attract bees and other pollinators, helping your flowers bloom.
As you can see, there are many reasons why you should take the time to plant more trees in your yard. The pros outweigh the cons, and your efforts will likely make you happier and healthier in the long run.
