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FAMILY FEATURES

These facts and tips from the book “ Now is the Time for Trees ” offer practical insight on the importance of trees and how to nurture one from selection to planting and beyond .

A compelling and ever-growing body of evidence generated by scientists , health care professionals , conservationists , humanitarians and both public and private corporations supports the critical importance of trees and their impact on the human condition . Trees filter pollutants out of the air and water and provide protection for people and communities from dangerous heat and flooding . They lower urban temperatures , reduce energy bills and sequester carbon to slow the rate of climate change .

When you plant a tree in your yard or neighborhood , that tree goes to work filtering out pollutants , intercepting stormwater and capturing carbon . With proper placement , that tree can also help lower household energy use by as much as 20 %.

You can engage in the tree planting movement and make a difference by planting trees around your home and surrounding community with these tips .

Consider the Growing Region

Choosing a tree that will flourish in your growing region is fundamental to becoming a successful tree planter . Start by getting familiar with the growing conditions of your planting site , including factors like sunlight , soil condition and room to grow .

The amount of available sunlight at your planting location will determine which tree species will be successful . Most trees require full sunlight for proper growth and flowering . Some do well in ( or even prefer ) partial or light shade , but few perform well in dense shade .

Before you plant , get your soil tested by a lab to evaluate what ’ s happening underground . Test results , which are usually returned in a couple of weeks , provide a complete analysis of nutrients , possible contamination and pH ( alkalinity or acidity ), as well as directions for correcting problems .

Be conscious of overhead or underground utilities , pavement , buildings , other trees , traffic intersections and other factors that may impact your planting space .

Shopping for a Tree

When choosing which kind of tree to plant , be conscious of details like size , flowering , color ( including how colors may vary through the seasons ) and your view from inside the house . While shopping , you can rely on plant labels to learn details about a tree ’ s growth pattern , sun requirements , watering needs and soil requirements .

Continued on page 12 .

6 Big Bend Real Estate Guide • May 2022