The Department of Energy has computer models showing properly placed mature trees can cut utility bills. Plus trees add value and beauty to our property. On the southern Oregon coast, they are an important part of our landscape. Landscaping your yard with the proper type and placement of trees offers many benefits. By shading your house, the walls, shingles and even curtains will last longer because the sun's ultraviolet rays are blocked. The oxygen level around your home will be higher from the plants' photosynthesis. And trees also function as natural air conditioners and provide needed windbreaks.
One key to efficient landscaping with trees is selecting the proper species and placing them in the proper location for your climate and considering the angle the sun shines on your house in your location. Draw a layout of your yard and decide where to add trees for your type of climate. Determine the height, shape, type (evergreen or deciduous) of the mature trees and their growth rates.
Don't forget to include any power lines, transformer, meter or other electrical facilities in your drawing. It is important to plan ahead so trees don't grow into power lines or obstruct other electrical facilities. Trees that grow into the path of power lines pose a danger to the lines, electrical workers or others because the tree acts as a conductor, moving the electricity from the lines to the person in or touching the tree. Branches falling into power lines can cause wildfires, property damage, personal injury and outages. While we have an on-going tree-trimming program to prune and remove trees or branches that could cause hazardous conditions, the best method for preventing the hazard in the first place is proper planning.
Once you have your drawing complete, talk with a local garden store expert to make sure the trees will thrive in your climate zone and to discuss proper placement for effective heating/cooling and windbreak effects. And, remember to plant trees safely away from overhead utility lines – for your safety and the safety of others.
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