One of the things that drew us to the property were the trees that surround the house. Most of our lot is in the front of the house but it backs up to protected land which is a huge blessing . The wooded land is home to deer, hawks, beavers, snakes (which I do not welcome - good or bad - but as long as I don’t have to greet them I will let them live) and more. Being surrounded by nature is so calming. The shade from the trees can cool a home on a hot summer day. They create privacy a as well absorb sound.

BUT…can there be too many trees? Well, when your insurance company says they will discontinue coverage if you don’t eliminate some…yes.

We knew we wanted to clean up some of the overgrowth in the front yard. The lot is sloped and some of the large trees had grown at an angle towards the house. Not only was the home at risk but it felt dark and gloomy. It needed more sunlight.

BEFORE

AFTER

We met with a Landscape Architect (he will be featured in future blog posts) who helped identify trees to take down. He explained that thinning out the wooded area in the front has many benefits. When you have over-grown areas, the plants and trees are fighting each other for sunlight and nutrients. This can cause disease, rot, poor airflow as well as homes for insects and rodents. Clearing out some of the trees will cut down on humidity and mosquitos. It will also allow the trees that are left to thrive and reduce future risk to the house.

I’m not going to lie…it was quite a shock seeing our home once the trees were removed. I love that you can actually see the home now, but it is a little bittersweet loosing so much green.

The seasons have changed since the before and after pictures were taken so it feels a bit barren. However, the light is amazing, and we have big plans to maintain a natural, organic feel to the landscape. It is a journey and one that will take some time but I believe it will be worth the wait in the end.