10 Reasons to Plant a Tree

Did you know planting a tree is one of the easiest and most powerful things you can do to have a positive impact on the environment? Trees clean the air, help you save energy, prevent rainwater runoff, and even combat global warming. These are just some of the great reasons to plant a tree. And they are not difficult to plant! No horticultural degree required.

From the single homeowner planting a maple tree in their backyard to the volunteers in communities devastated by hurricanes, fires or infestations by planting hundreds of trees, people worldwide are all contributing to the reforestation of our planet.

Here are 10 reasons why you should join them and plant a tree!

Trees clean the air and help you breathe

Trees don’t just absorb CO2. They also absorb odors and pollutants like nitrogen oxides, ammonia, sulfur dioxide and ozone. It’s estimated that one tree can absorb nearly 10 pounds of polluted air each year and release 260 pounds of oxygen.

Trees prevent soil erosion and rainwater runoff

During heavy rains, water runoff finds its way to streams, lakes and wetlands, creating the potential for flooding. It also picks up and carries pollutants along the way. The Center for Watershed Protection and the EPA are recognizing the importance of trees in managing runoff. Leaf canopies help buffer the falling rain and their roots hold the soil in place, encouraging the water to seep into the ground rather than run off.

Planting trees is easy

Gardening can be intimidating for newbies because there are so many variables. Which plants and flowers should you put next to each other and which should you separate? Which bloom in the summer and which bloom in the fall? When you’re dealing with trees, there’s none of that. Just choose the right spot in your yard and you’re good to go. Also check out all of our Planting Tips to help you along the way.

Trees fight climate change

Wish you could do more than recycling and reducing your carbon footprint to combat climate change? Trees are a great way to start. Through photosynthesis, trees absorb harmful carbon dioxide, removing and storing the carbon and releasing oxygen back into the air. Need anymore reasons to plant a tree?

Trees increase your home’s value

Studies of comparable homes with and without trees show that, if you have trees in your yard, your home’s value increases by up to 15 percent. It’s all about curb appeal, and trees make your home and yard more beautiful.

You’ll attract birds (and other pollinators)

Trees provide nesting sites, food and shelter for our friends the pollinators. Hang a feeder in one of the branches and enjoy the birdsong all year long. Squirrels love to make their homes in trees, too, and watching their antics is a great way to spend a lazy summer afternoon.

Trees are good for your mental and physical health

A view of trees in urban areas has been proven to reduce stress, anxiety and even the crime rate. Tree-filled gardens on hospital grounds for example speed healing in hospital patients.

You’ll save money

Trees conserve energy in summer and winter, providing shade from the hot summer sun and shelter from cold winter winds. With trees standing between you and the elements, you’ll spend less on your energy bill to heat and cool your home.

You’ll be giving your descendants a gift

Trees can live hundreds of years, so when you plant one, you’re giving a gift to your children and grandchildren. It’s a symbol of your commitment to the environment and the beauty of the world around you that will live on far beyond your own lifetime.

You’ll be able to return to nature after you die

You and your loved ones can now be transformed into trees thanks to Bios Urn®, continuing to grow in the after-life. In this way, death becomes a transformation and return to life through nature.

 

What do you think of these 10 reasons to plant a tree? Can you think of any other good ones? We would love to hear from you in the Comments section below!

Also check out all of our Planting Tips.

Source: Arborday

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