The Importance of Planting

Temperature Regulation

• Shady areas can be as much as 45 degrees cooler than those without trees, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Asphalt and concrete absorb heat, which is another reason why cities can seem sweltering. Some cities plant trees to help shade buildings and parking lots, and some develop cooler city parks.

  If you live in a green, rural or suburban area, you can still add plants in strategic places to help cool your home in the summer and gain beneficial, passive solar heat in winter. Plant deciduous trees, those which lose their leaves in the fall, on the south side of your house. In summer, the shade will help cool your home. In winter, you will gain beneficial passive, solar heat through the bare branches. Add more grass seed to make your lawn more enjoyable instead of building a heat-absorbing brick or concrete patio.

Cleaner Air

• Most plants absorb carbon dioxide, or CO2, naturally as part of the photosynthesis process, and they store it in leaves, stalks, trunks and roots. CO2 is recognized as a greenhouse gas by the EPA, and it sets the standard by which all other greenhouse gases are measured. Although scientists debate on whether global warming and climate change are related, the ability that plants have to absorb CO2 is documented by the EPA.

Landscape Preservation or Restoration

• Homeowners naturally want attractive foliage and flowers in their yards, but many plants wither and die soon after being transplanted. Even if a plant is available at your local garden center, it might not be suitable for your area. Instead of dying, some imported plants overrun native vegetation. For example, the invasive kudzu vine, introduced to the United States from Asia in 1876, now smothers millions of acres of native vegetation in the southern U.S.

  Native plants seem less showy or attractive than perfect hothouse flowers, at least as first. However, they benefit the soil and air, and they require less watering, fertilization and maintenance. Many local forestry departments, horticulture associations and universities host annual wildflower and native plant sales. Incorporating some into your landscape will help bring native elements back to your area, which can also help prevent soil erosion.

Natural Insect Repellant

• Pesticide use is common in the U.S., but over-use can increase pests as insects develop resistance to poisons. However, some plants can help restore harmony without poisons. Catnip, citronella grass and sage are offensive to mosquitoes, according to Alderleaf WIlderness College.

  Vegetable and flower gardens benefit from companion planting. This practice involves pairing plants vulnerable to certain pests with other plants known to repel or control them. For example, sweet alyssum attracts insects that feed on aphids, making it a beneficial companion plant for another that is plagued by aphids.