Most of the time trees and shrubs are planted for their beauty or to create some shade in a yard. While these are both excellent reasons to plant them, woody plants serve many other important purposes in our environment.

Trees help to improve personal health and well being. Most people feel a sense of relaxation and well-being when observing a stand of trees, post-operative hospital stays have proven to be shorter when patient’s rooms offered a view of trees and open spaces. With their potential for long life, trees are often planted as living memorials, giving people a long term reminder of loved ones.

Trees play an important role in our environment by moderating climate, improving air quality, conserving water and providing habitat and food for wildlife. Climate control occurs by moderating the effects of wind, sun and rain. Trees can shelter a house from cold winds or hot sun reducing energy use. Rainfall is also intercepted by trees, reducing erosion and storm runoff than can carry pollutants to streams and creeks.

Air quality and a reduction in pollution is probably one of the most important benefits trees offer. Leaves filter the air we breathe by removing dust, smoke and other particulates that can damage human lungs. Trees also absorb carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and sulphur dioxide, in return they give off oxygen. One acre of trees produce enough oxygen for 18 people every day and can absorb as much carbon as is produced by a car driven up to 25,000 kms. The death of one 70-year old tree would return over three tons of carbon to the atmosphere.

Communities also benefit from trees with their ability to reduce noise pollution by acting as a sound barrier. They also provide privacy and reduce glare and reflection off roadways. Residential property owners can benefit from establishing healthy trees resulting in property values increasing by as much as 15%.

So grab a shovel, plant a tree and grow our future.