Tree Care Pros

Why Hire an Arborist

Trees are an investment that require proper tree care; however, pruning or removing trees, especially large trees, can be dangerous work. Tree work should be done only by those trained and equipped to work safely in trees.

What is a certified Arborist?

An ISA arborist certification is a nongovernmental, voluntary process by which individuals can document their base of knowledge. Certification provides a measurable assessment of an individual’s knowledge in the competencies needed for proper tree care.

Services an Arborist Can Provide

Arborist can help homeowners maintain their investment by:

  • Pruning
    • Pruning can be necessary for various reasons including, improvement of health, appearance and safety. An arborist can determine what type of pruning is necessary.
  • Tree removal
    • Tree removal can be expensive. Consider hiring an arborist when your tree is dead or dying, an unacceptable risk, causing an obstruction, crowding other trees, or located in an area where there’s new construction.
  • Emergency tree care
    • Removing or pruning storm-damaged trees can be dangerous, but a professional arborist can perform the job safely while reducing further risk of damage to people and property.
  • Planting
    • Getting your new tree off to a healthy start will help the tree mature to its full size and ensures it will provide environmental, economic, and social benefits throughout its lifetime. Some arborists plant trees, and most recommend species that are appropriate for certain locations.
  • Other services
    • Plant health care or preventive maintenance.
    • Cabling and bracing for added support to branches with weak attachments.
    • Soil aeration to improve root growth.
How to Hire an Arborist

Hiring an arborist is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Proper tree care is an investment which can lead to substantial returns. Well-cared-for trees are attractive and can add considerable value to your property. Poorly maintained trees can be a significant liability. Arborists make a career of caring for trees. Here are several tips for selecting an arborist:

  • Avoid arborists who routinely top trees.
  • Have more than one arborist look at the job, and get a written bid specifying the work to be done.
  • Ask for and check local references.
  • Determine if the arborist is a member of the International Society of Arboriculture, (ISA) or the Tree Care Industry Association, (TCIA). Membership does not guarantee quality, but lack of membership casts doubt on the person’s professionalism.
  • Beware of an arborist who wants to remove a living tree. Removal of live trees is sometimes needed, but should be a last resort.
  • When possible hire an ISA Certified Arborist. ISA Certified arborists are experienced professionals who have passed an extensive examination covering all aspects of tree care.
  • When reviewing arborists ads, avoid those that advertise topping or demossing. Look for ads that promote their ISA Certification or membership in ISA or TCIA.
  • Ask for certification of personal and property liability insurance and workman’s compensation. Then phone the insurance company to make certain the policy is current.
  • Low price is a poor gauge of a quality arborist. Often, the better ones are more expensive because of more specialized equipment, more professional help, and insurance costs.