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Saving Energy By planting Nursery Stock
In the past week there has been an increasing interest in
landscape design for energy conservation. Rising fuel costs can
be offset by landscaping. The primary goal is to control wind
and sun. In Pa. the first line of defence for energy savings is
protection from the cold winter winds by the use of landscaping.
Research shows that properly designed screens and buffers can
reduce the heating cost of a typical residence by as much as 30
percent. Landscaping For Winter Fuel Saving There have been
studies that show that wind speeds around homes can be reduced
by as much as 90%. The best design for windbreaks depends on the
use and exact location of the site. However, in most of Pa. the
prevailing winds are from the northeast, thus, the maximum
protection should be concentrated in the north east. A single
row of conifers with staggered spacings is the best for
protection from both wind and blowing snow. The wind is
deflected up and over the screen, creating a well protected
zone. The area of maximum protection can extend outward several
times the height of the trees. If space is at a premium, fewer
plants will be helpful, but the use of conifers and other
densely branched species is essential for maximum winter
protection.arborvitae make an excellent choice for providing
winter protection. Arborvitae are commonly used evergreens
useful in urban areas where low maintenance and durability is
needed. Many cultivars with forms such as being globed in shape,
columnar, or narrow pyramidal, tend to be near buildings, doors,
and walkways. Other forms which are larger are used for screens
and buffers that are planted in rows. The form of arborvitae is
small, medium, or large depending on the cultivar. Some reach
50', others only 3'. Even small Arborvitae can help breakup the
wind and drifting snows of winter. Most prefer full sun to
partial sun. Planting in dense shade conditions should be
avoided. A moist, well drained, loamy soil in full sunlight are
ideal
conditions for growing healthy arborvitae. These plants
will tolerate rocky, clay, urban conditions of heat drought and
pollution. The most important pest we have is bagworms which
must be controlled to prevent complete defoliation. Some
cultivars have multiple leaders which also prove to be a
detraction for the plant. Pruning out multiple leaders in some
cultivars is a simple remeady. The ease in planting and
maintaining this plant make it an ideal choice for planting
around the house. Plant shrubs with wind direction in mind.
Since south winds are generally warmer than northeast winds, it
is considered sufficient to have moderate protection on the east
and desirable to leave the south open or restricted to rows of
shrubs and deciduous trees. More openness to the south allows
solar gain in the winter and for summer ventilation house. The
economic incentive of reduced heating costs is additional to
known benefits of reduced snow clearing. While most homes have
at least some naturally treed areas or planted screens
protecting their yard, the full potential benefit from tree
planting is far from being realized. Energy conservation is a
growing concern. Current studies confirm what fuel oil dealers
have known all along, homes with screens and buffers use
considerably less fuel. The time to begin planning for an energy
conscious future is now. Types of evergreens at Highland Hill
Farm
There many trees and plants that can be used in
windbreaks,hedges, screens. The White Pine is another special
plant. It is fast growing and durable. Two foot trees can grow
into a large fuel saving shelter belt quickly. We sometimes see
3' of growth per year when then conditions are correct. Its soft
graceful blue needles can complement your backyard and give
quick privacy. Besides it is one of least expensive plants and
is not invasive....You can read more articles at
http://www.seedlingrus.com
About the author:
Farmer/Investor give tips on saving money
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