How to Choose Shade Trees

Trees can improve the comfort of your home by providing summertime shade that reduces air-conditioning costs. Landscaping will also increase the beauty and value of your home.

If you choose to plant trees, it makes sense to do some research and planning to maximize their shade and other benefits. Good planning helps avoid mistakes such as putting a large tree in a too-small space or selecting a tree that produces a lot of unwanted litter.

The mature size of the tree is its most important selection criteria. You should consider the tree's height, crown diameter, and size and depth of the root structure. On the one hand, the tree should have room to grow into the space where you plant it. On the other hand, it needs to be close enough to the home to block the sun from different angles throughout the year.

Effective shading requires that trees block overhead sun near the home's south face and low-angle sun from east and west. Trees in the south yard should be fairly close to the house to achieve roof shading when they mature. However, don't plant the tree any closer to your home than one-half the mature-crown diameter. East and west trees should present a broad screen to the low-angle morning and afternoon sun. For open spaces, one or two broad trees work well. Limited space at property lines may require a row of tall narrow trees. In Northern climates, consider planting deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter and allow sun to warm your home.

Understand your choices before selecting shade trees for your home.

Consult your local extension agent or nurseryman for advice. The best information may come by looking around your area for mature trees of the varieties you're considering. Bring a tape measure and notice the characteristics discussed here. Is the tree right for your site?

Both Your Home Cooling Energy Guide and The Homeowners Handbook to Energy Efficiency have extensive information about maintaining comfort and reducing air-conditioning costs.