Have you ever thought about how trees help to keep us keep cool? When you’re out in the summer heat, you can always find relief in the shade of a wide canopy.

As experienced tree service professionals, we’re here to tell you a little more about how trees reduce temperature and why they’re such an essential part of the ecosystem.

Transpiration

Trees and temperature reduction go hand-in-hand because of a tree’s ability to transpire. Water vapor moves through a plant from the roots to the leaves and then escapes into the air.

As water evaporates from a tree’s leaves, it pulls heat away and creates a cooling effect on the surrounding air temperature. This is why you always feel more comfortable if you stand under a tree on a hot day.

Shade

Another way that trees help reduce temperature is by creating shade. Less direct sunlight hitting an area means less extreme heat.

Trees provide shade in two ways: directly blocking the sun with their leaves and branches and reflecting solar radiation away with their light-colored bark. This physical shade, combined with the transpiration process, can lower the surrounding temperature by as much as 15 degrees Fahrenheit!

More and more urban planners are taking advantage of the effects of street trees by planting them along sidewalks and in city parks. This not only provides much-needed shade for pedestrians but also makes areas more pleasant and inviting.

What Affects a Tree’s Ability to Reduce Temperature?

Different trees reduce temperature at various rates. Some factors that affect their ability to cool down their surroundings include:

• Size and density. Taller trees with a denser canopy are better at creating shade and reducing temperature.
• Leaf type. Broad, flat leaves are more effective at transpiring water and cooling the air than smaller, needle-like leaves.
• Transpiration process. Some tree species transpire more water than others, making them more effective at reducing temperature.
• Health. A tree’s health also affects its ability to reduce temperature. A sick or dying tree will transpire less water and provide less shade than a healthy tree.

If you want to ensure the health of your trees, consider investing in Missouri city’s top-rated tree service by Nature’s Tree Removal. We have the experience and expertise to help your trees stay beautiful and thriving for years to come.

Save Money on Your Energy Bills

Do your air conditioning bills skyrocket during the summer? Planting trees around your property is an excellent way to reduce energy costs. Recent studies show that tree-covered areas can enjoy a reduction in cooling costs by up to 30%.

Other advantages of planting trees include:

• Stormwater management. Trees help to reduce stormwater runoff by intercepting and storing precipitation.
• Improved air quality. The beneficial effects of trees include filtering out pollutants and harmful particulates from the air.
• Noise reduction. Trees with thick canopies can act as a sound barrier, absorbing noise and providing more peace and quiet.
• UV protection. The shade of trees can shield you from harmful UV rays, reducing your risk of skin cancer.

The Bottom Line

Trees are more than just aesthetically pleasing; they play a crucial role in keeping us comfortable. By releasing moisture into the air and creating shade, trees reduce temperature and make our environment more livable.

If you plan to add a tree to your property or want to protect the health of your existing landscape, call Nature’s Tree Removal. Our experts can assess your needs and recommend the best course of action. We also encourage you to read our blog to learn more about the importance of tree diversity.