Landscaping pro reveals best trees to make your home cool & reduce energy bills

A LANDSCAPING expert has shared which trees you should surround your home with to help cut costs.

They revealed which evergreens you keep on your property that are aesthetically pleasing and will also help keep your energy bills low.

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Vice President of Training & Sales Grant Beuter shared landscaping trends and helpful tips for outdoor transformation enthusiasts.

Moon Valley owns and operates 19 farms and over 40 retail locations across Arizona, California, Nevada, Florida, and Texas, with more than 2,100 acres of nursery property.

“A well-placed shade tree can also help stop the sun from beating down on the side of your home, which in turn can help reduce your indoor energy bill,” said Beuter.

TOP TRUNKS

“Last summer we saw record heats across the country and we’re now seeing an influx in people looking to install shade trees throughout their landscape,” he said.

The expert shared his top picks for helping homeowners keep cooler temperatures and simultaneously reduce their living costs.

“In most areas, one of the best shade trees you can have is going to be your Southern Live Oak,” he said.

He called the evergreen an “excellent tree” that will provide a ton of shade for your yard or garden.

Because it’s an evergreen it also keeps its leaves year-round.

“Not only will it provide great shade on a carport, driveway, or side of your home, it’s also going to protect you with some great privacy as well,” he added.

He dubbed the Indian Laurel another great variety in a lot of regions, especially in warmer climates, because they can take the heat well.

“This variety is extremely dense and has the ability to provide great privacy, but also really help block out that intense afternoon sun,” he explained.

But if you’re looking for something more desert-focused and you want something low water, he said you “can’t go wrong” with the Chilean Mesquite.

Not only is it a fast grower, but it also provides a really beautiful umbrella-shaped canopy.

“It’s important to work with your local nursery pros to identify the right variety of tree not only for your region but what is going to thrive best at your home,” he advised.

TREE TRENDS

With such an expansive reach, experts have gained insight into the most desirable trees and shrubs for 2024.

“One of the biggest shifts in landscaping we continue to see are more sharp and clean materials that create this insanely clean look,” Beuter said.

“We’re seeing more people opt for a more modern style for their yards, with many using a Hollywood Hedge to provide thick, lush greenery to their spaces.”

Hedges are also being used at a variety of heights, whether it be “total privacy ” or just to the knee.

Fruit trees continued to be in high demand, which Beuter said was “huge.”

“People love having fruit in their homes and the ability to go right into their backyard, pick it off the tree, and enjoy it fresh,” he added.

The expert said that there has also become a new emphasis on creating more inviting patios and entryways with an interior design element.

“The combination of flowering plants, tropical varieties, topiaries, and even cacti with your favorite pottery can completely change the appearance of someone’s home,” he explained.

When it comes to caring for your trees, Beuter said “preventative care is the best care in anything.”

“Practice fertilizing and feeding your trees and shrubs regularly. By doing so, your plants are going to stay strong and healthy, allowing them to better fend of diseases or pests,” he advised.