Landscaping for energy conservation

Smith County—Our typical Texas summer has arrived, and my house and landscape are both hot. Mrs. G wants more shade. Energy conservation in the landscape is more than just a mandate or environmental buzzword. It is a practical, cost-saving approach that every homeowner can put into action. By following Texas A&M AgriLife’s Earth-Kind® principles, gardeners can reduce energy use, improve comfort, and protect the environment, all while enhancing the beauty and value of their property.

One of the most effective ways to conserve energy in the home landscape is through strategic plant placement. Large deciduous trees planted on the south and west sides of a home can lower interior summer temperatures by 8 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. In the winter, these same trees allow sunlight to filter through their bare branches, naturally warming the home. For best results, shade trees should be planted 15 to 20 feet from the side of a home or 12 to 15 feet from a corner to allow proper canopy spread. Smaller ornamental trees such as crapemyrtles, redbuds, and Japanese maples can be planted closer to windows and walls, providing seasonal shading benefits.

Air conditioners also benefit from thoughtful landscaping. The American Refrigeration Institute found that shading the outdoor unit can reduce indoor temperatures by up to 3 degrees. Planting shrubs, vines, or small trees nearby can offer shade, but it is important to allow enough space for proper airflow and maintenance access.

Vertical plantings such as espaliers, trellises, and vines can insulate walls from summer heat and winter cold. They can also reduce dust, glare, and noise. Deciduous vines like American wisteria, Boston ivy, and Virginia creeper offer summer shade while allowing winter sunlight to penetrate. Annual vines such as morning glory or hyacinth bean can provide quick seasonal coverage. Overhead structures, including arbors and pergolas placed over windows, doors, or patios, can also shield walls and outdoor living spaces from excessive heat, especially when paired with climbing plants such as muscadines or climbing roses.

Groundcovers are another valuable part of an energy-efficient landscape. Turfgrass, ferns, liriope, Asian jasmine, and other low-growing plants keep the surrounding environment cooler than bare soil, asphalt, or concrete. This reduction in heat buildup helps lower the overall temperature around the home, reducing the cooling load. Choosing drought-tolerant, pest-resistant groundcovers also reduces the need for watering, fertilizer, and pesticides, further lowering costs and environmental impact.

Proper plant placement and selection not only saves energy but also enhances wildlife habitat. Trees and shrubs provide shelter and food for birds, bees, and butterflies. Incorporating native species whenever possible increases the ecological value of the landscape while maintaining low-maintenance and water-efficient design.

When planned with energy conservation in mind, the landscape can become a natural extension of the home’s heating and cooling system. By strategically using trees, shrubs, vines, and groundcovers, homeowners can enjoy reduced utility bills, increased property value, and a more comfortable outdoor environment.

Good landscaping isn’t just beautiful; it is smart energy management. For more information, visit the Earth-Kind section of our Aggie Horticulture website.

Greg Grant, Ph.D., is the Smith County horticulturist and Master Gardener coordinator for the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service.