Trees are, without a doubt, one of the earth’s greatest natural resources. The environmental, social, and mental benefits are so great that hospitals are increasingly bringing in gardens and trees to help their patients’ state of mind and speed the healing process. (Check out Tree People’s impressive list of the Top 22 Benefits of Trees.)
Another excellent and important benefit of trees, especially as they grow and mature, is the incredible financial benefit they can bring.
In addition to providing shade – thus, reducing energy bills – trees can dramatically increase a property’s curb appeal. The Arbor Day Foundation cites a study from Arbor National Mortgage and American Forests that says, “83 percent of realtors believe that mature trees have a ‘strong or moderate’ impact on the salability of homes listed for under $150,000; on homes over $250,000, this perception increase to 98 percent.”
The foundation also provides statistics that estimate healthy and mature trees can increase property values anywhere from 10 percent (USDA Forest Service) and 20 percent (Management Information Services/ICMA)!
So, how do you go about protecting this great investment?
- Research: First, if you don’t have trees already on your property – or, you would like to supplement the existing trees – do some research into what types of trees would be appropriate and advisable for you. You’ll need to take factors like climate (and, California, drought), nearby structures, soil, etc. into account.
- Plant: It’s more complicated than dropping a few seeds in the ground. You’ll need to plant trees in the right place, at the right depth, and with the right irrigation if you’re going to set your tree on the path to health and longevity.
- Preventive maintenance: Much like your own body, trees simply do better when they’re cared for properly and expertly – far ahead of disease!
Fortunately, you’re not left on your own. The ISA-certified arborists at Arbortek can help you with each phase of the process – call us to learn more about how you can nurture and protect your trees for the long haul, and bring the best ROI possible.