Landscaping pro reveals the best trees to keep your home cool and reduce energy bills. A shady choice has leaves year-round

A LANDSCAPE 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.

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

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

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

UPPER TRUNKS

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

The expert shared his top picks for helping homeowners maintain cooler temperatures while reducing their living costs.

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

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

As it is evergreen, it also keeps its leaves all year round.

“Not only will it provide great shade on the driveway, driveway or side of your house, but it will also protect you with great privacy,” he added.

He dubbed the Indian Laurel another great variety in many regions, especially in warmer climates, because they can handle the heat well.

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

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

Not only is it fast growing, but it also provides beautiful umbrella-shaped coverage.

“It’s important to work with local nursery professionals to identify the right variety of tree, not only for your region, but also what will thrive best in your home,” he advised.

TREE TRENDS

With such a wide range, experts have gained insight into the most desirable trees and shrubs for 2024.

“One of the biggest changes in landscaping that we continue to see is crisper, cleaner materials that create an incredibly clean look,” said Beuter.

“We’re seeing more people opting for a more modern style for their backyards, with many using a Hollywood hedge to provide dense, lush greenery to their spaces.”

Hedges are also being used at a variety of heights, whether “full privacy” or just knee-high.

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

“People love having fruit at home and being able to go straight to the backyard, pick it from the tree and enjoy it fresh,” he added.

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

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

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

“Practice fertilizing and feeding your trees and shrubs regularly. By doing this, your plants will remain strong and healthy, allowing them to better defend themselves from diseases or pests,” he advised.

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