Since before recorded history, trees have provided us with two life essentials—oxygen and food. As we learned how to use them for things like shelter, filtration, medicine, and making paper, their importance grew even more. In modern times, they’re still one of the most important living things in our environment, which is why it’s so beneficial to plant them. Here’s a closer look at some of the reasons why.

How Planting Trees Benefits Us All

They Keep Our Air Clean

Plants are like natural air filters—they absorb particles such as dirt and smoke as well as harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide. At the same time, they release oxygen, which animals need to live. The next time you plant a sapling, think of this—you’re making an investment in breathable air.

They’re Home to Hundreds of Species 

We all know birds like to nest in trees, but they’re not alone. They also house insects, spiders, slugs, frogs, and turtles, not to mention forest mammals like white-tailed deer, raccoons, opossums, porcupines, and red foxes. 

Their Roots Protect the Earth

Intricate root systems that play an important role in helping prevent natural disasters. They can capture large amounts of rainwater and slow down the speed at which the water is absorbed into the ground, which can help reduce erosion and the risk of flooding. In fact, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, just one mature evergreen is capable of absorbing more than 15,000 liters of water a year.

They Help Humans Prosper

Trees give us life in so many ways. In addition to offering us oxygen, they provide us with timber to build shelters and wood to burn for cooking and heating our homes. They’ve also allowed us to build prosperous industries and a wealth of jobs, from pulp and papermakers to loggers and arborists. And it’s hard to imagine what the world would be like today without paper.

To learn more about the importance of trees, talk to the experts at Edgefield Plant & Stone Center in Greensboro, NC. With more than 30 years of experience, the professionals at this garden center are passionate about plants and highly knowledgeable about tree species as well as shrubs, perennials, and landscape design. Visit their website to learn more about their services and call (336) 662-0081 to speak with a helpful expert today.