While trees are beautiful, they do age and get sick, often requiring removal. A tree removal service, while essential, does not mean you can no longer have trees in your yard. Granted, the large oak may have died, but you can plant a sapling in its place. The world needs more trees, especially with growing climate and environmental concerns.
Planting new trees is not difficult, and if your yard already had an existing tree, then you know a new one can grow and thrive. If you are still on the fence about planting another tree after experiencing a loss, consider the five benefits.
1. Increase Home Value
If you are not the environmental type, consider the financial benefits of tree planting. Did you know that trees can improve home value by nearly 15%? Curb appeal is a significant contributor to home value, and trees play a substantial role in beautifying a landscape. While some people may baulk at the maintenance of tree ownership, most people enjoy the shade and shelter it provides. Trees create a welcoming atmosphere, especially when they are correctly pruned and cared for by an arborist.
2. Prevent Rainwater Runoff and Soil Erosion
Heavy rainfall is detrimental to the foundation of your property. While gutter systems help to prevent water settlement, severe storms still threaten your property with soil erosion and water runoff. Planting a tree can help negate the troubles of severe weather. The canopy of healthy trees shields your land against excessive water exposure. With tree branches creating a natural roof over your landscape, you ensure the stable foundation of your home. You need not worry about the softening or washing away of the soil. Trees are an ardent defence against mother nature.
3. Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Did you know that trees also offer mental and physical health benefits? Some studies suggest the planting of trees in urban areas reduces anxiety and stress, even reducing the crime rate in some areas. It is no wonder then why hospitals use trees in community spaces to encourage and speed up the healing process. People often seek out nature to relax, and it would seem that science backs up the idea that trees are healing for the mind, body and soul.
4. Reduce Energy Costs
Planting more trees also has practical applications for homeowners. Trees not only help to shelter residences from storms, but they also provide shelter from climate shifts, helping to reduce energy costs throughout the year. For example, during the hot summer months, trees provide shade, which can help reduce cooling costs. Also, during frigid winters, trees protect against strong cold breezes, potentially reducing heating expenses. While the savings may be minimal, with rising utility costs, something is better than nothing, right?
5. Improve the Environment
If you do not find the financial and mental health benefits enough to plant a tree, consider the environmental advantages. Not only do trees provide shelter for birds and other wildlife, but they also fight climate change and improve air quality. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, and through photosynthesis, they store the carbon and release oxygen. Beyond removing harmful CO2, trees also remove pollutants, like nitrogen oxides, ozone, sulphur dioxide and other odorous chemical compounds. Researchers estimate that a single tree can release nearly 120 kilograms of oxygen per year and remove about 5 kilograms of pollutants. Trees are mother nature’s air purifiers.
Do you have a diseased or dying tree on your lot? Are you interested in removing it and replanting? If so, contact Martin’s Tree Service. We specialize in all things tree-related and will be happy to help you resolve your tree concerns and find a replacement species to suit your needs.
Steve Martin