How a Garden Can Impact Your Home’s Value
As we look for more ways to become (or keep being!) green thumbs, we're diving into how a garden can impact the value of your home. It's not just about what's inside your four walls; what you do outside can make a big difference too. So, let's take a step further and explore how a garden can add intrinsic and bottom-line value to your beloved abode.
Plant a Native Garden vs. a Grass Yard
Say goodbye to the high-maintenance grass yard and hello to a native garden. Not only will it save you time and effort, but it will also have long-term financial benefits. Native gardens require less maintenance, resulting in lower costs over time. Plus, your water bill will thank you as native plants are adapted to the local climate and require less watering.
Embrace the Power of Trees
Don't underestimate the impact of a single tree! As trees mature, they provide shade and can save you up to 12% on your energy bill by reducing the need for excessive HVAC usage. So, instead of solely relying on solar panels, consider the power of passive solar design. Many older homes in New England were designed with this in mind, leveraging natural sunlight and shade to regulate indoor temperatures.
Create a Cool Oasis
In hot summer months, a well-planned garden can be your secret weapon for staying cool. By planting a variety of trees, you can create a natural cooling effect. These leafy wonders provide shade, reducing the amount of direct sunlight that enters your home and lowering the need for air conditioning. Find the right balance between sunlight and shade to create a comfortable environment indoors.
Outside and Inside, It's All Connected
Remember, the outside of your home shouldn't be viewed as separate from the inside. They're interconnected, and striking a balance between the two is crucial. A beautiful garden enhances your home's curb appeal, but it can also positively impact your overall living experience. Embrace the symbiotic relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a seamless flow between nature and your cozy interior.
Find What Works for You
I'm not here to push solar panels or any specific solution. What matters most is finding what works for you and your unique circumstances. Whether it's a garden, solar panels, or a combination of both, choose the path that aligns with your values, budget, and goals. Remember, the goal is to enhance your home's value while also enjoying the benefits of a sustainable and comfortable living space.
Your garden is not just a pretty addition to your home; it holds intrinsic and bottom-line value. By opting for a native garden, harnessing the power of trees, creating a cool oasis, and finding the right balance between indoors and outdoors, you'll be well on your way to enhancing your home's value while enjoying the benefits of a vibrant and eco-friendly garden. So, grab your gardening tools and let your garden work its magic, both inside and outside your home!
Welcome to my visit to The Aldrich Museum of Contemporary Art!
First off, a huge thank you to Holly for the incredible tour. The museum is truly a gem, offering a unique blend of contemporary art that both inspires and captivates. The new sculpture garden is particularly stunning and is poised to become a vibrant community hub. I highly recommend visiting the museum to experience it for yourself.
There's something magical about watching your children grow, from their first uncertain steps to their confident, chaotic sprints through the hallways.
When you first brought your little one home, the space you had might have seemed more than ample. Your living room was a castle, and the backyard a vast kingdom. Yet, as the years fly by, that once spacious home begins to feel more like a cozy cottage—charming but decidedly cramped.
As your child hits milestones, such as turning five and starting school, you might notice they need more room to explore, play, and simply be a kid. This can be a clear signal that it’s time to consider upsizing your home.
This blog will talk about how to recognize when your family might need a bigger space and how to take those next steps.
Wherever you are in the world, there are plants that are best suited to grow based on your local environment. Embracing the plants native to your area not only enhances your yard but also supports local wildlife and ecological balance. What native plants grow where you live? Let us delve into the vibrant native flora of New York State, each species boasting its unique traits and benefits.