It may not seem like having a green thumb can have anything to do with green building, but you’re wrong. Some of the best ways to save energy and create a cleaner environment can be found in nature. Planting deciduous trees on the south side of your house can be a great way to keep your house cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. The south side of your home is the hottest side because it gets the most direct sunlight, so by planting deciduous trees like Oaks and Maples on that side of your house they will shade your house from the direct sunlight during the summer, therefore keeping you and your house cooler. One of the most distinguishing characteristics of deciduous trees are that they drop there leaves in the fall. By dropping there leaves in the fall they open the south side of your house up to more and more sunlight there by warming your house up during the fall and the winter when you need it the most. By planting deciduous trees on the south side of your house you can lower your heating and cooling bills by as much as 25%. Also you can help lower your heating bill by planting a screen of evergreens on the north side of your home to protect your house from cold blowing winds during the winter. By using these ideas you can change the temperature in and around your house by as much as three to six degrees. Strategically planted trees will not only help lower your energy bills, but will also greatly improve your way of life by giving your house more curb appeal and providing you with cleaner air to breath.