Shade Trees
Planting shade trees and adding more energy-efficient landscaping can reduce your cooling costs up to 50 percent.
Shading your air conditioner can reduce its cost by up to 10 percent.
Vines growing on a trellis can reduce the temperature on that wall by up to 40 degrees F.
The first thing to do is see where it is sunny. Figure out where the sun hits your house throughout the day and depending on your climate either block or let the sun shine.
Know your climate. Depending on what type of climate you live in will determine which types of plants you should utilize.
Plant vines to reduce the temperature of your walls. If you plant deciduous vines they will allow the sun to warm your house in the winter when their leaves fall off.
Shrubs and bushes can also reduce the temperature of walls especially if planted on the west side of your house. When planted next to sidewalks and driveways they block the heat that is radiated off of these surfaces. When planted a foot from your house they reduce heat and provide insulation in the winter.
Ground covers planted near your house or driveway will reduce heat in the summer and insulate your house in the winter.
Plant shrubs next to your air conditioner to reduce the work on it to cool your house.
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