It is very possible to achieve a gorgeous landscape that will retain its beauty even during drought conditions. But it’s easy to get caught up in the appearance of flowers, grass, shrubs, and other plants during dry conditions that we forget an equally important part of the equation… trees.
Trees offer a number of benefits to homeowners in addition to enhancing the aesthetic of a landscape.
- The average tree absorbs about 26 pounds of carbon dioxide from the air each year.
- According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a one-acre forest can produce four tons of oxygen, which is enough to support the needs of eighteen humans for a year.
- Trees can boost the property value of landscaped homes by 5 to 20% more than non-landscaped homes. They also increase in value as they grow.
- Properly planted trees can also help conserve energy. The Arbor Day Foundation shares that “large deciduous trees planted on the east, west, and northwest sides of your home create soothing shade from the hot summer sun and reduce summer air conditioning costs by up to 35%.’
With those benefits in mind, it’s important that you include some basic tree care in your regular lawn and garden maintenance. The Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado recently shared some great tips in its weekly newsletter. First, be sure to keep trees pruned properly. That will help protect your trees (and their surroundings) from wind and storm damage.
Also, be on the lookout for signs of disease or bug infestations. A change in leaf color or the appearance of a tree’s bark could be signaling a serious problem. Quick action will not only preserve the health of your trees, but protect your investment, too.
It’s also important to make sure your trees are receiving the right amount of hydration, especially in drought conditions like we are currently experiencing here in Denver. A dehydrated tree usually has brittle limbs that will snap easily in a storm and it will also be more likely to incur an insect problem or disease.
How do you care for the trees in your Colorado landscape to ensure they are healthy and happy?
Lifescape Colorado is here to help you with your landscaping needs. Contact us today at 303-381-3810 for more information on our landscape design and maintenance services.