“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.”
This Chinese proverb seems especially true this fall. After sweltering summer temperatures, we could use the cooling effect of more of trees. And planting trees is something most of us in Montgomery can do. They add beauty to our homes while helping fight climate change. Here’s how.
Trees help the Earth keeps its cool
Trees do a lot of work for us humans. They:
- Sequester carbon: Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the air during photosynthesis. This process reduces the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
- Improve air quality: Leaves filter pollutants and release oxygen, contributing to cleaner, healthier air for us to breathe.
- Control erosion: Tree roots anchor the soil, preventing erosion and protecting topsoil from being washed away by rainwater. The absorption of rainwater also reduces the risk of flooding.
- Provide habitat: Trees provide a home for wildlife, promoting biodiversity and enhancing the overall health of the ecosystem.
- Regulate outdoor temperatures: Trees cool the environment by providing shade and releasing water vapor through a process known as transpiration.
- Regulate indoor temperatures: By shading your home in summer and providing windbreaks in the winter, trees enable you to use less energy and lower your bills. Using less energy, in turn, lowers carbon emissions from power plants.
Fall is a perfect time for planting
Planting trees in the fall gives them an extra growing season before the stress of summer. Cool days, warm soil, and moderate rainfall help trees establish their root system before winter sets in. This root development ensures they are better prepared to flourish come spring. Plus, many garden centers discount trees in the fall, so you can save a bit of green while going green.
Trees create a more sustainable, beautiful, and healthy environment for all. So grab your shovel and plant a few. You’ll be contributing to the health and well-being of future generations.
Sources:
Arbor Day Foundation: arborday.org; The Nature Conservancy: nature.org; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: epa.gov; U.S. Forest Service: fs.usda.gov