Working Shade into Your Plan

How you landscape your home can help you save more than just water. How about cooling costs? Consider that it can be as much as 20 degrees cooler in the shade than out in the open sun. A mature oak tree can dissipate as much heat as four home central air conditioners, cooling the environment and reducing water loss. During the winter months the objective is usually the reverse: gain and hold as much heat as possible. Careful placement of large deciduous trees and thermal masses such as south facing walls can make both possible. Shade trees are only one source of shade. Careful use of shade structures, or even making use of the shadow cast by your neighbor’s house, can benefit your xeriscape plan.

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