Smart planting can reduce energy & AC costs

Did you know that planting trees around your home can save you money? Did you know that it's possible to cut your air conditioning bills in half, and reduce the amount of energy used by your household?

Plant trees.

I found a great resource online from Louisiana Public Broadcasting with the following advice:

• The east, west and south walls of your house receive the most sun. Plant at least three deciduous (leaf-losing) trees around your house to shade these three sunniest sides.
• Trees can also save energy in cold weather. A row of evergreen trees on the north side of your house (or the side with prevailing winter winds) can serve as a windbreak and lower heating costs.
• Plant a tree to shade the area around and over your air conditioner, but be sure to keep the air intake area clear of branches. You'll save money if your air conditioner draws air from a cool, shaded area.
• More home energy is lost from windows than walls, so locate your trees to specifically shade windows. Plant a tree east or southeast of east-facing windows; south, southeast or southwest of south-facing windows; or west or southwest of west-facing windows.
• You want trees near enough to shade, but not too close to overhang the roof.

Have you got any other ideas for how smart planting in the garden can benefit your power bills ... and maybe even the environment?