From boosting property values to reducing home cooling costs, trees are a vital part of the environmental health and cultural history of west central Florida.

1. By offering protection from the sun and wind, they can slash air conditioning costs by up to 50 percent and reduce heating costs nearly 15 percent, estimates the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. Since leaves release water into the air, just one strategically placed shade tree can drop in-home temperatures by 10 degrees.

2. Flush with vivid green leaves or fragrant flowers, a tree enhances your home’s landscape and screens unsightly views.

3. A landscaped yard increases home values by heightening curb appeal and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

4. Studying or working in a room with a view of nature boosts brain power and self-discipline.

5. Timber-lined streets strengthen communities by reducing crime rates and inviting residents to come outside to play, jog or chat with neighbors.

6. Filter out noise pollution from nearby schools or busy roadways by up to 40 percent.

7. Relaxing under a tree provides personal health benefits by protecting your skin from UV rays, relaxing your brain, slowing your heartbeat and lowering your blood pressure.

8. There is a host of environmental health benefits as well, including putting more clean oxygen into the air around your home. Leaves trap airborne particulates and absorb pollutant gasses, which enhances your respiratory health.

9. Leaves also capture CO2, which reduces your carbon footprint by protecting the planet from harmful greenhouses gasses.

10. Create a safe, thriving habitat for local Florida animals, birds and insects.

11. Slow soil erosion, decrease water evaporation on sun-drenched lawns and reduce stormwater runoff that floods and pollutes our world-famous Florida waterways.

12. A banana, plum or fig tree supplies your family’s table and local wildlife with healthy food.

Learn about shade trees that provide the best energy and environmental benefits for our Central Florida climate, or contact Warner Tree Service at (727) 478-2864 to trim an existing large tree or remove one that is diseased or dead.