6. Landscape for shade
Spring has a tendency to bring out the green thumb in all of us. Before you pick up those garden tools, think about the placement of trees and shrubs, and how they help shield your home from the elements. A well-placed deciduous tree can protect your home from the sun’s heat in summer and cold wind gusts in winter. Similarly, evergreen shrubs around the foundation offer added insulation, especially on the windward side. Learn how to plant a tree to save energy.
REMEMBER:
If you’re planting saplings of tall trees, position them at least 10 metres away from powerlines. That way, when the trees mature, they won’t interfere with overhead powerlines — which will prevent power outages in and around your home. Finally, be sure to call before you dig to ensure you don’t interfere with any underground locates.