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As with conifer­ous plants, wind is deflected in all directions around the canopy mass of a large decid­uous tree; some wind is directed below the canopy where wind velocity is intensified between the canopy and the ground. Wind is also a potential asset in most regions. To assist wind exposure, a wall or fence should […]

Several other approaches may also be taken to minimize exposure to cold wind. Proper planting of coniferous evergreen vegetation can save up to 30 percent of the heating cost for the cool season of the year.[10] Specific site conditions such as available space, orientation of the house to the street, and direction of desirable views […]

• The north and west sides of a house are most exposed to the cooling effects of winds following the passage of a cold front; this outcome is most negative during the winter season. Topography, vegetation, and other buildings both on and off a particular site frequently modify these general conditions. However, wind blows most […]

This need is greatest in northern regions and less in southern regions of the country. Likewise, exposure of interior spaces to sun can increase ambient room temperatures and reduce heating costs during the winter season. This heat is retained inside the room, referred to as a “greenhouse effect.” No shrubs should be planted that screen […]

The amount of shade desired will depend on the use of the space, the regional location, and the time of day when shade is needed. Therefore, walls and fences are best located to the east and/or west of the spaces that are to be shaded. regions that experience severe fire hazard (see “Protect from Potential […]

In the equinox months of March and September, the sun’s path and angle above the horizon are halfway between the extremes of June and December. Naval Observatory (http://aa. In the summer season (June), the sun rises in the northeast and moves in a clockwise direction around a site until it sets in the northwest. An […]

All weak and diseased woody vegetation should be carefully pruned or completely removed depending on the type and extent of the problem. Unlike typical plant removal or “grubbing,” all parts of invasive plants including their root systems should be cleared away. Weeds in established planting areas call for removal by hand as well. In addition […]

The theoretical ideal is to rehabilitate a flawed landscape to the natural condition it was in before development, though realistically this is often not possible or even desir­able. In addition, this convention requires topsoil to be removed from another site, thus contributing to its degradation. Less obvious altered landscapes also exist on residential sites where […]

soil and pollutants, thus cleansing the water entering into a stream, wetland, or lake. These habitats are easily disrupted or removed when a house and associated landscape are inserted into a natural setting. Diversity is essential to a healthy ecosys­tem because it supports interdependence and is more resistant to disease and stress. Retained natural habitats […]

However it is performed, grading disturbs the soil by alter­ing its natural profile and compacting it. It is undertaken by heavy equipment such as a bulldozer, Bobcat, or backhoe, although fine grading is frequently done by hand. Structures that must be located under a tree should be elevated above the ground on posts to minimize […]