It’s that time of year – the trees are bursting into bloom, and, after a long, cold winter, we’re finally seeing signs of life. That vibrant green foliage is great for the mood, and even better for your yard. If you don’t have any trees in your yard, you should certainly think about planting one. Now’s the perfect time to plant a tree in your backyard! If you’re a tree planting novice, or would just like to learn a little more about planting trees, check out this handy infographic!
As mentioned in the infographic, there are many benefits of planting a tree in your backyard, and, if you’re worried about your foundation or concrete driveway, there are also several ways to prevent problems from happening.
The Benefits of Planting Trees in Your Backyard
- Natural temperature control – Trees can help you lower your energy bills. When placed strategically, they provide shade in the summer to cool your house down, and act as a windbreak and insulation in the winter to keep it warm. You’ll reap the benefits when you don’t have to run your HVAC system as often to control the temperature of your home, which will result in a noticeable decrease in energy usage.
- A home for wildlife – Trees can help deter wildlife, like birds, raccoons, squirrels, and other critters, from making a home in your home by providing safe shelter for them. The leaves and branches provide protection from the elements, so they won’t seek this protection from your home.
- Boost curb appeal –When pruned, and properly watered and fertilized, trees provide aesthetic appeal to your yard. This is a big draw for potential homebuyers. Studies have even shown that trees can increase the value of a home.1
- Keep water away from your foundation – Water sitting at the base of your foundation can cause devastating damage. Nearby trees will suck up the rainwater that might otherwise collect in your yard, so you won’t have to worry about water sitting on the foundation. Trees also help prevent soil erosion by soaking up the water that causes landscaping to wear away over time.
- Improved air quality – Trees act as a natural air purifier by absorbing CO2 and other greenhouse gases. Trees also give off vital oxygen, which helps the environment.
How to Make a Tree Work for Your Backyard
- Install LeafFilter – LeafFilter Gutter Protection will prevent leaves, maple spinners, pine needles, and other tree debris from clogging your gutters. That means you can enjoy your trees year-round without the worry of having to clean all that debris out of your gutters. LeafFilter is specifically designed to prevent all organic debris – not just leaves and spinners – from entering your gutters, so even pollen won’t stand a chance! Make sure to request your free estimate from LeafFilter today!
- Choose the right sized tree – The size of your yard should determine the size of your tree. Make sure any tree variety you choose will work with your yard as it matures. Whether you have a small yard, or a big one, you’re sure to find a tree that works with the space you have available!
- Be careful where you plant it – If you’re planning to plant a tree that will grow large roots, be sure to place it far enough from your home to ensure its roots won’t reach the foundation or any other areas with concrete, like your driveway and sidewalks.
- Place tree root barriers – If you don’t have a lot of placement options, root barriers can divert roots away from places susceptible to root damage, like your foundation and concrete areas.
- Take care of dead branches – Dead branches are a big hazard, especially on windy or story days. They pose a risk to personal safety and to the safety of your home. Remove dead branches as soon as possible after you spot them to prevent issues.
Between all the benefits of planting trees and these handy tips to make a tree work for your backyard, there’s really no reason to wait any longer. Pick a tree for your backyard, and enjoy watching it grow, worry-free, for years to come.
