[nkrisc]

> They also block light.

The lack of old trees that block like is why all those new developments you see are so miserable. You'll be blasting your A/C to keep the house comfortable if you live in a warm climate precisely because there's no big enough trees blocking the light.

Being outside around your house without shade is also miserable in the summer.

Those developments will be livable in 15-20 years when the trees mature. That's why I bought a house in a 25 year old neighborhood with mature trees. Any added maintenance of the trees is worth the shade they provide.