If the right trees are planted in appropriate places, they won't have to be hacked through for utility wires or shed slippery flowers on the sidewalk that invite lawsuits. There are all kinds of good reasons to plant trees. Psychologists say that they soothe and relax us, and enhance our sense of privacy and solitude. Meteorologists say that by providing shade and releasing moisture, trees ease the buildup of heat in urban areas and block the glare from the sun. Conservationists say that trees trap and hold dangerous pollutants, reduce soil erosion and provide food and shelter for a variety of wildlife.
Landscape architects use trees to screen unsightly views and to absorb and block noise.
CITYgreen goes along with all of this, but keeps its eye on the bottom line. Trees reduce air-conditioning costs, reducing dependency on oil. They increase property values, they attract tourists and some of them supply valuable products like fruit, nuts and lumber. Remember, though, that trees, like shopping centers and marriage, are easier to get into than out of. When you plant a tree from a 5-gallon can remember that it could grow to 60 feet and the roots could rip up your lanai.