How to Save Money by Planting a Tree

Trees not only beautify your home, but they also provide many monetary benefits. This article will list several benefits you may receive if you plant a tree or two.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. 
    

   Some cities, electric companies, or communities will issue rebates when you purchase and plant a tree on your property, usually around $25-$100. You may have to purchase the tree from a list of approved vendors who will also plant it for you, the tree may have to be planted on the west side of your home, the tree may have to be an approved type of tree, or the tree may have to be planted in your front yard.

2. 
    

   Trees increase your property value. Your home value may increase as much as $1,000 per mature tree on your property. For many mature trees, your property value may increase by up to $10,000.

3. 
    

   Mature trees create shade, thus reducing electricity bills, often by 20% over homes without trees. Creating shade can reduce the temperature of your home up to 15 degrees. Plant deciduous trees towards the east and west of your property to get the maximum shade benefit. Plant evergreen trees toward the north side of your property to act as a wind break in the winter. Also create shade over your air conditioning unit to increase its efficiency. Consider purchasing a few fast growing trees for new homes, but beware that fast growing trees are not always as strong or live as long as slower growing trees. Always research trees before purchasing one to make sure you get the correct tree for the particular spot in your yard.

4. 
    

   Shade from trees reduces the water requirements of your lawn, thus reducing your water bill. You will also reduce the need to mow your lawn as much.

5. 
    

   Trees offer benefits to the community and environment that will affect the taxes you pay. They provide shade on the street which will increase its lifespan and have to be replaced less often. Trees help the community water by reducing water runoff, topsoil erosion, and purifying the water. Studies have proven that they also provide traffic safety by assisting motorist in viewing curves in the road and visually making the street feel narrower so motorists drive slower, which will reduce accidents that cost money.

6. 
    

   Trees have positive benefits to your physical well being. Trees reduce stress and clean the air which will reduce the chances of getting sick, missing work, and having to pay doctor bills. Trees also act as a noise buffer which will allow you better sleep which will also lessen the chances of getting sick. People who are ill and stuck in bed heal faster and have fewer complications when having a view of a tree out their window. Studies have also shown that having trees reduces domestic violence (its true, I am not making this up).

Tips & Warnings

• If planting a tree seems daunting, consider purchasing a very small tree that is very inexpensive, easy to plant, and transport in your car.
• Many garden centers reduce their prices by up to 75% in the fall to make room for Christmas trees.
• Fruit and nut bearing trees will attract birds, but they may also attract other unwanted wildlife such as mice, squirrels, possums, and snakes.
• Just because a tree is only 10' tall now does not mean it will stay 10' tall. Do your research before purchasing a tree to make sure it is appropriate for your landscape. Avoid planting too close to your home, paved surfaces, and overhead power lines.

[charlotteanne]

on 11/9/2009 I had no idea trees could save me money in so many ways! 5*

[wordstock]

on 2/25/2009 We could not deal with the heat in the summer if our two big trees did not shade most of the yard. Besides, there is nothing nicer than sitting under the tree with a good book.

[klnygaard]

on 1/21/2009 great info

[hollie1974]

on 1/21/2009 Very good article! I never thought about shading the ac unit. Cool idea! And beautiful pictures! TY! 5 *'s up!

[lydiabily]

on 12/11/2008 These are all great points. I never thought about how many economical gains there are from planting a tree. And great tip about buying from a garden center just before Christmas for a deep discount!