Now that the summer season is just around the corner, most of us are thinking about wrapping up this spring project checklist and spending some time relaxing in the sun.
Having trees in your yard will provide shady areas that are several degrees cooler than the other spots in your yard, and can be all the difference between enjoying your time outdoors … and, just staying inside all year.
Planting one tree near your home that is positioned in a way that there is shade over a window, will reduce the cooling costs to your home by 20%.
If you want your trees to help make your yard comfortable and cool, it is important to take care of them starting now.
Here are a few tips for how to take good care of your trees so they provide you shade and increased air-quality:
Water. Make sure that you know how much water each of your trees needs. Some require more than others. A good rule of thumb to follow is to water 5-gallons for every 1-inch of trunk diameter. Water in the morning time so that the sun does not cause the water to evaporate. And, water your trees slowly so they are not flooded and the water is fully absorbed by the soil and does not runoff.
Mulch. Mulching will protect your trees and tree roots from the hot temperatures of the sun. Add one to three inches of mulch around the base of your trees to trap the moisture in the soil. Also, the mulch will keep the soil temperature cool.
Drought. When your tree does not get enough water, it can cause irreversible damage to the tree. This will cause the tree to be stressed, which will leave them more prone to insect damage and disease. By adding mulch and following good water practices, you can help your trees to avoid the damaging effects of drought.
While the temperature has been warmer than it was just a few months ago, it will continue to rise and will eventually be uncomfortable to sit outside in the sun. And, that is where having trees planted in your landscape will definitely come in handy.