In this 3-part series, Greening Your Home, you’ll learn ways to make your home more energy-efficient while also saving you money in the long run. Caring about the environment and being “green” can be easier than you think as a homeowner. You can start today! 

Here’s the final article and it’s all about how to plant trees in your yard (or common yard if you’re in a condo) for much less money. 

Did you know that by adding a tree to your yard, you can increase your property value and save on energy costs? 

But maybe the cost or your lack of a green thumb is holding you off. 

No worries since there are some great programs South of the River that can help! 

Why Trees Help Your Home 

• Trees boost curb appeal. The presence of larger trees in yards and as street trees can add 3 to 15 percent to home values throughout neighborhoods. 

• Trees can shade buildings, windows and air-conditioning units. Homes with well-situated trees can reduce air conditioning needs by 30 percent and save 20 to 50 percent in heating costs. 

• Trees can help with water drainage. 

Scott SWCD Plant Sale 

Scott SWCD offers low-cost, high-quality tree and shrub seedlings to Scott County landowners. By adding native prairie seed mixes and live plant kits, they have something for everyone to make Scott County a more beautiful and environmentally friendly place to live! 

Annual Arbor Day Tree and Shrub Sale 

Sponsored by the City of Lakeville, offers trees and shrubs at discounted prices to residents. The intent is to encourage residents to replants a diversity of tree species after a tree is lost to disease or storms. 

Dakota SWCD Tree Sale 

The Dakota SWCD’s Tree Sale provides the opportunity for landowners to purchase high quality bare root seedlings at a low cost for urban and rural conservation purposes, such as windbreaks, reforestation, erosion control, and food and cover for wildlife. Resources available to aid in your tree selection, planting layout, tree planting and care. 

Keep a look out for any local community tree programs that might offer reduced-priced trees native to your area. Sometimes these events can be held once a year and include help with planting and how-to’s on tree care.  

Happy planting!