As a business owner, you may not have given the trees and greenery surrounding your business a second thought—but you should! Studies tell us that the presence of trees, especially in otherwise urban areas, can do a lot to improve your business. In honor of Arbor Day this April, we will be looking at a few of the biggest benefits below.

Increased sales performance

If you’re looking to boost profits, consider adding trees to your business landscaping. While the presence of beautiful trees is just one factor of many that can determine business success and positive customer impressions, it does help—in fact, one study showed that business on streets lined with trees had 12% higher incomes.

This only makes sense—potential customers are often drawn to aesthetically pleasing places, and a business surrounded by lush, growing trees is sure to attract attention.

Better business atmosphere

Trees simply have that immeasurable, positive, “feel-good” quality about them. They can reduce stress and make shopping or dining a more pleasant experience for customers and employees alike.

Improved framing of important signage

You certainly don’t want to block important directional signage with a tree, but the proper growth and care of a health can actually help improve the effectiveness of local street signs or signs for your own business. A rich green tree can give important signs the clear backdrop they need (as opposed to having signs get lost in the hustle and bustle of an urban setting)—so as long as that tree is trimmed regularly, it can actually be a great source of help.

Valuable shade

Shade is a valuable commodity, and it’s easy to attain through the addition of leafy trees. Shade has the power to cool down your business itself, and can prevent cars in the parking lot from heating up. It might also make customers more likely to do business with you and stick around to eat, shop or relax.

Safety and security

Safety and security of your employees and customers is always worth considering, and trees might help you achieve a better peace of mind in these areas. Studies show that drivers slow down as they make their way through streets lined with trees, and the presence of trees can make certain safety features like red lights stand out a little more.

As you can see, a healthy tree or two might be able to do more for your business than you think—so consider planting a couple this spring and enjoy the long-lasting benefits!