Those who need to tackle those lawn projects that need to be done should be happy to learn that the investment can pay for itself in a few ways.Those who need to tackle those lawn projects that need to be done should be happy to learn that the investment can pay for itself in a few ways.

Landscaping increases the value and curb appeal of the home and it can also reduce the home’s energy use.

Made in the Shade

According to the U. S. Department of Agriculture, one shade tree has the same effect as five air conditioners.  Deciduous trees planted at the west and south sides of the home are a wonderful way to keep summer energy costs down.

Trees planted 15-25 feet from the home can lower temperatures inside the house as the sun seeks to bear down on roofs, walls, and windows.  They block and soak up the heat as it travels toward the house, and the moisture from the trees provides a cooling air.  Meaning, that houses shaded by trees run their air conditioners less.

Go for the Green?

If the trees are "deciduous" the opposite result will be achieved in the winter, because the leaves are gone.  The trees will not block the sun, but instead clear a path for the warm rays that will help heat the home.  They also allow more light to break through bare limbs. 

Evergreens have benefits also.  They stand firm against strong winds.  However, they should be placed differently.  While summer sun exposure is the worst on the south and southwest sides of the home, winter wind exposure typically hits from the northwest.

Large evergreens planted on the north and west side of the home will serve as windbreaks.  This is a huge help because, in a great deal of homes, nearly one third of heating is lost to cold winds.

"Cutting Edge" Plantings

Shrubs also help to reduce energy use.  Place them near outdoor condensers to shade the air conditioner in the summer.  They work well as shade walls also, but remember to not let them grow high enough that they block out the winter sun.

Other options such as deciduous vines on trellises along the southern and western walls can provide a cooling effect in the summer.  Another option is evergreen vines on the north side which will help insulate against winter winds.

The hard work done in the yard this weekend probably won’t affect this month’s energy bill.  However, whether it takes years for the windbreaks to pay off, or until next spring for ground covers to take hold, you’ll still benefit from improved property values and better curb appeal.

Jill Pulmer is a landscape professional in Greenville, NC and operates the website Garden Notes.