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1. Plant Trees. In common areas and resident yards, quality landscaping gives your com- munity the kind of inviting appearance that enhances curb appeal, provides fresher air, and raises property values. Here are four payoffs of planting the perfect tree and how to do it right. 1. Trees increase property values. A tree in front of a house increases the home's sale price by an average of $7,130. Plus, good landscaping increases the value of homes by 6 to 11 percent. (PNW Research Station and Michigan University) 2. Trees reduce energy bills. Strategically placed trees save up to 56 percent on annual air-conditioning costs. Likewise, in winter, trees, especially evergreens, placed appropriately around the house, can reduce the need for heating by 20 to 50 percent. (USDA Forest Service) 3. Trees sell homes. Homeowners achieved a 109 percent return on every landscaping dollar spent – higher than any other home improvement. The presence of street trees also reduces time on the market by an average of 1.7 days. (Michigan University and PNW Research Station) 4. Trees give back. Over a span of 50 years, one tree produces $31,250 worth of oxygen, provides $62,000 worth of air pollution control, recycles $37,500 worth of water and controls $31,250 worth of soil erosion. (The Trust for Public Land) ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTOR The Davey Tree Expert Company's approximately 9,000 employees provide diversified tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental services for the residential, utility, commercial and government markets throughout U.S. and Canada. Davey has provided Proven Solutions for a Growing World since 1880 and has been employee-owned for 38 years. For more information, visit www.davey.com

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