A recent study examined whether trees can make a person healthier. The study was a follow up to an observation made by a hospital staff, in which they observed patients recovering from surgery. Those patients who were facing a window were discharged on average one day sooner than those patients who were not afforded a view of the outdoors. The results are remarkable: An additional ten trees on a given block increased by 1% how healthy respondents felt. Even more remarkably, the researchers found that it was trees in front yards, rather than backyards or parks, that caused these feelings. It has been proven time and time again, just looking at a tree has cognitive benefits as well as health benefits.

Armed with this knowledge, why wouldn’t you plant a few trees in your front yard? If you still aren’t convinced, here are some other benefits that trees provide.

• Trees help the environment

An abundance of Carbon Dioxide has frequently been cited as accelerating climate      change. Guess what? Trees absorb Carbon Dioxide and release Oxygen into the air. An acre of trees can absorb enough Carbon Dioxide to offset an automobile travelling 26,000 miles!

• Trees help lower energy bills

Trees that are planted in strategic areas can help lower air conditioner usage by 50%. What could you do with that extra money?

• Trees help to conserve water

The shade provided by a tree slows the evaporation of water from your lawn. As trees grow, they also release moisture into the atmosphere. This is a win-win!

• Trees can help prevent soil erosion

In many climates and locations, soil erosion is a constant threat. This is as true on the Outer Banks as it is almost anywhere else. Trees can help to slow runoff, and hold soil in place.

These are just a few of the benefits that trees can provide. Maybe this is the year that you plant a new tree, or seek expert tree care for those that you already have. If neither of these are on the agenda, do yourself a favor and take a nature walk. Enjoy the beauty and rejuvenation that trees provide. If you have seen other benefits of trees, feel free to share!