Part 1 of Wetlands. Although wetlands are often wet, a wetland might not be wet year-round. Some of the most important wetlands are only seasonally wet. Wetlands are the link between the land and the water. They are transition zones where the flow of water, the cycling of nutrients, and the energy of the sun […]
Part 7 of Landscaping for Energy Efficiency. Many suburban and urban land need loosening before you plant. If the soil is compressed until it an area of at least five times the diameter of the root ball. Plant your new trees and shrubs in a cool or cloudy days to reduce the stress of moving. […]
Part 6 of Landscaping for Energy Efficiency. Trees and shrubs come in all shapes and sizes. How you select your trees and shrubs and how to plant them will directly affect your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Trees and shrubs have a life span of many years and may become more attractive and functional with […]
Part 4 of Landscaping for Energy Efficiency. A well-informed and well-designed home admits low-angle winter sun, rejects overhead summer sun, and minimizes the cooling effect of winter winds. If you are building a home, pay attention to its orientation. In the northern hemisphere, it is usually best to bring home long axis in an east-west […]
Part 2 of Landscaping for Energy Efficiency. Widespread tree planting and climate-appropriate landscaping offer substantial environmental benefits. Trees and vegetation control erosion, protect water supplies, provide food, create habitat for wildlife, and clean the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) estimates that urban America has 100 million […]
Part 7 of Ways to Save Money on Energy at Home. Landscaping is a natural and beautiful way to keep your home more comfortable and reduce your energy bills. In addition to adding aesthetic value and environmental quality to your home, a well-placed tree, shrub, or vine can deliver effective shade, act as a wind- […]
Part 4 of Cool Your Home Naturally. Placement of vegetation is important when landscaping your home. The following are suggestions to help you gain the most from vegetation. Plant trees on the northeast-southeast and the northwest-southwest sides of your house. Unless you live in a climate where it is hot year-round, do not plant trees […]