Local Programs Make Planting a Tree Easy and Inexpensive

Caring about the environment and being “green” can be easier than you think as a homeowner. You can start today! In this 3-part series, Greening Your Home, you’ll learn ways to make your home more energy-efficient while also saving you money in the long run.

Here’s the final article, and it’s all about how to plant trees in your yard (or common yard if you’re in a condo) for much less money.

Did you know that by adding a tree to your yard, you can increase your property value and save on energy costs?

But maybe the cost or your lack of a green thumb holds you off. No worries since some great programs in the Honolulu area can help!

Why Trees Help Your Home
• Trees boost curb appeal. The presence of larger trees in yards and street trees can add 3 to 15 percent to home values throughout neighborhoods.

• Trees can shade buildings, windows,, and air-conditioning units. Homes with well-situated trees can reduce air conditioning needs by 30 percent.

• Trees can help with water drainage.

The City and County of Honolulu passed ACT 105, The Exceptional Tree Act, in 1975 to recognize that trees are valuable for their beauty and that they perform crucial ecological functions.

Trees for Honolulu’s Future builds bridges among public and private organizations and local communities by working in concert with and through them to accomplish mutual goals.

Smart Trees Pacific is another non-profit organization focused on urban and community forestry serving Hawaii and the Pacific. Their mission is to promote and provide resources to select, install, establish, and care for trees to provide solutions for the natural and human environment. See how trees benefit the neighborhood.

Keep looking out for any local community tree programs that might offer reduced-priced trees native to your area. Sometimes these events can be held once a year and include help with planting and how-tos on tree care.

Many groups are concerned with the tree canopy in specific neighborhoods and want to help homeowners plant trees.

Happy planting!