Most people take pride in their homes. They work hard to keep it clean, comfortable, and stylish. But what about the garden and landscape? It’s easy to let these areas go, especially if you’re not a big fan of yard work. However, there are several good reasons to keep up with your garden and landscape. Here are six of them.

1. It Can Increase the Value of Your Home

If you’re thinking of selling your home, first impressions are important. Potential buyers will drive by and take a look at the property before they ever step foot inside. If your garden and landscape are well-maintained, it can increase the value of your home by up to 14%.

On the other hand, if your garden is overgrown and your landscape is neglected, it could turn potential buyers away. First impressions are important, and you want to make sure your home is putting its best foot forward. If you’re not planning on selling anytime soon, that’s okay. Keeping up with your garden and landscape can still increase the value of your home.

2. It Can Save You Money

Letting your garden and landscape go can actually end up costing you more money in the long run. If you don’t mow your lawn or trim your bushes, they will grow out of control. This will make getting them back under control harder and more time-consuming. It’s much easier to maintain your garden and landscape than it is to let it grow wild and then try to tame it.

In addition, if you have trees on your property, it’s important to keep them trimmed. Overgrown tree branches can damage your roof or even fall through your home’s windows. Regular tree maintenance can save you a lot of money in the long run.

3. It Can Improve Your Health

Studies have shown that spending time outside in nature can improve your mental and physical health. If you have a well-maintained garden, it provides a great opportunity to get some fresh air and spend time in nature.

In addition, gardening can be a great form of exercise. It’s low impact, so it’s easy on your joints and a great way to get some sunshine. All of these things can improve your overall health.

4. It Can Help Save Energy

If you have trees on your property, strategic placement can help save energy. For example, planting trees on the west side of your home will provide shade in the afternoon and evening when the sun is at its strongest. In fact, in the summer, deciduous trees can block between 60% and 90% of the sun’s rays. This can help keep your home cooler in the summer, which will reduce your air conditioning costs.

In the winter, trees can act as a windbreak. This can help keep your home warmer by reducing the amount of wind that blows through. As a result, you’ll use less energy to heat your home in the winter.

5. It Can Improve the Air Quality

Trees and plants can help improve the air quality in your home. They absorb pollutants and release oxygen into the air. In fact, one tree can produce enough oxygen for four people to breathe. If you have a garden with several trees, that’s a lot of clean air for your family to enjoy.

In addition, plants help reduce noise pollution. If you live in a busy area, planting a few trees can help muffle the sound of traffic and other noise pollution. This can create a more peaceful environment for you and your family.

6. It Can Make You Happier

Spending time outside in nature has been shown to improve your mood and reduce stress. If you have a garden, it provides a great opportunity to get some fresh air and relax. Gardening can also be therapeutic. It’s a great way to clear your mind and focus on something positive.

According to some real estate professionals, smart landscape design may earn a 200-400% return on investment. So, not only can a well-maintained garden and landscape make you happier, but it can also be a great investment.