Beat The Heat With Fast Growing Shade Trees

Looking to save on your electricity bills this summer? Consider landscaping as a means to do it! Planting a fast growing shade tree (or several, for optimal benefits!), according to the US Department of Agriculture, can reduce cooling expenses by as much as 30% and can save 20% – 50% on heating costs. Average annual utility bills run from $1,500 - $2,500, so this could add up to a savings of thousands of dollars in the first few years alone. Plus, healthy, mature trees increase property values by as much as 10%.

It doesn’t take many trees to make a big difference, either! Begin by shading the west and east sides of your home. Trees such as the Autumn Blaze Maple, Royal Empress tree and other red maple trees are fast growers that easily adapt to various soil and climate conditions and will provide an abundant canopy for shading your home.

Because the winter months will soon be upon us, it is also a good idea to begin considering evergreen shrubs and hedges to insulate your foundation, or planting a windbreak. These measures can cut your winter power bills by up to 40%.