We all know it's cooler in the shade in the summer and warmer when we're shielded from the wind in winter. Placing trees and shrubs in the right places on your property can help reduce energy used for cooling in summer and heating in winter.
- Tall deciduous trees (those that lose their leaves in the fall) planted to the south of your home will provide maximum summertime roof shading while allowing sunlight to filter through during winter months.
- A 6-to-8 foot leafy (deciduous) tree planted near your home will begin shading windows the first year.
- Lower trees work better placed to the west, where shading is needed from afternoon sun.
- Never plant tall trees, or hedges in spots where they will grow into overhead power lines.
- Dense evergreen trees and shrubs planted to the north and northwest of your home make an excellent windbreak.
- For maximum protection, plant your windbreak at a distance from your home of two-to-five times the mature height of the trees.
- Trees, bushes and shrubs may be planted together to block winds from ground level to the treetops.
- Planting shrubs, bushes and vines next to your house creates dead air spaces that insulate your home in winter and summer.
- Make sure to allow at least 1 foot of space between full-grown plants and the walls of your home.
