One of the benefits of privacy landscaping may surprise you. According to the California Energy Commission, choosing the right trees may reduce your summer cooling costs by as much as 40%.
But, it’s not just the shade from trees that helps. Landscaping bushes and other plants cool the passing air, because of the water vapor released during photosynthesis.
If you live in a temperate climate, it’s best to choose deciduous trees that lose their leaves in the fall. If you choose evergreens, they will still shade your house in the wintertime, which is not what you want for energy efficiency.
If you live in a cooler climate with long winters, plant trees to the east, west and north of your home, but not to the south. That way, your home will get the full benefit of the solar warmth, coming from the south, during the winter.
You could plant dwarf fruit-bearing trees to the south. They never grow very tall, so they won’t block out much of the sun in the winter, but they will cool the air and provide some shade in the summer. They are also food sources. Lowering your food bills is an added benefit.
Climbing plants, such as vines, are popular choices for privacy purposes. With strategically placed trellises, they can be as effective as privacy fences and they are much more attractive. Just remember to consider air circulation and don’t plant them too close to the house.
Vines that are good choices for privacy landscaping include arctic kiwi and autumn clematis, but any vine will do. It’s really a matter of personal preference. When choosing landscaping bushes, most people prefer varieties that bloom in the spring. Forsythia and Redbuds are popular choices. You may need to do a little trimming to keep things looking good, but with the right privacy landscaping, you’ll have less grass cutting to do and you’ll probably do less watering, too. You can sit back and enjoy your private paradise.
