Too frequently people do not use landscape plants to conserve energy. Proper placement of trees, shrubs, and vines around a house conserves energy while adding beauty.
Trees are the number-one landscape plant used in energy conservation in the home landscape.
Trees help remove pollutants from the atmosphere that can damage humans. They also can absorb carbon dioxide and other gases while producing oxygen for us to breathe. Trees and other plants reduce the greenhouse effect by shading houses and office buildings. This benefit reduces air conditioning needs up to 30 percent because less electricity is required for cooling. Properly placed trees within the landscape can be as effective as other home improvements in reducing heating and cooling costs.