Plenty of ink is spent discussing the benefits trees provide homeowners. Common talking points among arborists and tree-lovers include the tendency for trees to raise property values, improve the health of those living near them and reduce runoff water, among others. But businesses – particularly retail-oriented businesses – benefit from trees in these and myriad other ways too. Here are some of the reasons why businesses should invest in commercial landscaping that contains more trees. 

Trees improve the aesthetics of your business location.

While aesthetics are often considered a "soft asset" that doesn't meaningfully contribute to your bottom line, it certainly makes both your employees and customers enjoy spending time at your business, which is always a good thing. Trees with significant visual appeal, such as flowering dogwoods or Japanese maples, are the most valuable species to use in such contexts. 

Trees create the perception of premium value.

Although a healthy crop of shade trees does not necessarily mean that a given business offers superior products or services, most people perceive tree-lined businesses as high-end establishments. Large, mature trees help emphasize the upscale nature of your business best, so consider installing species with fast growth rates, such as Chinese elms.  

Trees help reduce cooling costs.

Just as they do for private homes, trees can shade your building from the scorching California sun. Even small trees can be used to shade air conditioning units, which will help offset cooling costs somewhat. Deciduous trees -- those that shed their leaves in the winter -- are especially useful in some contexts, as their leafy boughs block the sun's rays during the summer, but allow sunlight to shine on the building in the winter, thereby reducing heating costs.  

Trees can serve as windscreens.

Large, flat parking lots often suffer from high winds. These winds are not only irritating for customers and employees, they spread litter around the parking lot and blow organic debris all over the place. But, by planting windscreens in strategic locations, you can eliminate most of the wind flowing across the lot.

Trees help reduce road and traffic noise.

In addition to blocking strong winds, trees can also be planted in dense rows to block the traffic noise and industrial sounds. Evergreen varieties, such as arborvitaes and red cedars, are superior for noise-blocking applications, as they do not shed their leaves in the winter. 

Trees can serve as effective barriers.

While trees do not form impenetrable barriers, they can help keep your customers corralled and prevent them from accessing employee-only areas. Some trees, such as hollies and honey locusts, have sharp leaves or thorns that can add additional deterrent value. 

For more information, contact a company like Chapel Valley Landscape Company.