The job of a parking lot shade tree isn’t glamorous. It’s challenging work, and many trials come with the job, but that doesn’t mean planting trees around your parking lot isn’t worth it. We’re going to explore the top benefits of shade trees in your parking lot to help you better understand why they’re necessary.
Help With Rainwater Runoff
Whether you plant the trees along the perimeter or in the interior of the lot, you can design the planting areas to capture rainwater runoff. Usually, you’ll surround the planting areas with curbs that prevent the water from reaching the trees. Innovate your approach and use curb cuts with depressed islands to capture the rainwater runoff. This approach will help manage stormwater while watering your trees.
Provide Shade for Vehicles and People
Returning to your vehicle after a day of shopping on a warm day isn’t ideal. The inside of your car is usually hot and uncomfortable. One of the top benefits of shade trees in your parking lot is that you’re providing consumers a place to keep their vehicle cool.
It can also help shelter customers from the rain on a stormy day.
Break Up the Monotony
Looking out over a vast, open parking lot is exceptionally dull. It’s grey, black, and striped as far as the eye can see. Shade trees will add color and vibrancy to an otherwise lifeless area of your business. You can plant trees that turn bright shades during the fall and bloom glorious flowers in the spring. Your shoppers will be glad you did.
Shelter Against the Heat
The hot summer sun is an enemy against asphalt and concrete. It will fade your striping lines quicker, increase cracks and potholes, and even weaken the pavement. If you live in a climate where winter doesn’t exist, your parking lot never receives a break. Shade trees help give your parking lot some relief.
When you’re choosing which shade trees to add, remember that they need to be sturdy and resilient. It’s not an easy job being a parking lot tree.
