Vegetables grow better in the sun. Nature, on the other hand, has programmed humans to need the safety and physical protection that shade provides.
They also need the emotional and psychological therapy which trees and other green infrastructure creates. These things in lieu of turning to addictive substances.
Trees and constructed shade are solution to virtually all environmental challenges as well.
Shaded landscapes are water-wise. Sun loving lawns in Utah use up to 50 inches of water per year. On the other hand the Woodland Shade garden at Jordan River's Water Conservation Garden uses 9.
Trees and other green infrastructure also provide natural evaporative cooling to counter urban heat island effects.
Absorbing noise pollution as well.
Additionally absorbing storm water runoff.
When creating your shade sanctuary proceed as follows:
First; Take advantage of shade provided by existing buildings.
Second; Creatively design and build shade into your landscape. Considering solar panels? They should be valued for their shade as much as for the energy they generate.
Third; Utilize the shade provided by existing trees.
Fourth; Plant suitable additional trees.
Fifth; Grow a shade garden (By planting hostas of course!)
Sixth: Enlighten others- those who don't consider themselves to be environmentalists as well as those who do.
