Did you know trees can add significant property value to your home? According to a survey published by HGTV, a well-landscaped yard with plenty of mature trees can increase that home's property value by 7% to 19%. However, if they aren't properly maintained, they can also cause damage to your home. This is why it's important to keep your trees happy, healthy, and well-trimmed. It also helps the environment! Trees provide crucial structures to local animal and plant life while also providing the air we breathe.

Arborists are a great resource for maintaining your trees as they spend years gaining the knowledge and experience to keep trees healthy. They can offer advice for growing different types of trees and shrubs as well as tips for preventing diseases. In this blog, we'll discuss what exactly an arborist is, what services they provide, and how to choose one you can trust.

What Is an Arborist?

An arborist is someone who has extensive knowledge of the structure, function, and care necessary for trees and shrubs. The job requires certification from the International Society of Arboriculture which entails a selective application process, exam, extensive studies, and several verifications. Tree care is both a science and an art.

What Services Do Arborists Provide?

Pruning

Pruning is the process by which certain tree limbs are removed. A certified arborist ensures that the branches are cut safely without harming the tree while also addressing branches that pose a risk to your home or the tree itself. This process can also help promote tree growth and treat diseases that may damage or kill the tree. Pruning is essential to a tree's overall health, and an arborist ensures proper technique is used so that the right branches are cut.

Tree Removal

It's relatively rare to have an entire tree removed. This is usually only done if the tree has died or if the tree is a major risk to your home or environment. Since this is typically a last resort option, an arborist will offer several solutions before removing the tree completely. If it has to be done, they'll ensure it's done safely and without harming other plant life around it.

In connection to this, sometimes people want a stump removed. Stump removal also requires extreme care because trees connect to other trees through their root systems. If a stump is removed carelessly, you could be causing harm to other vegetation.

Planting New Trees and Shrubs

If you want to add more trees or shrubs to your property, arborists are a great resource for figuring out which type of tree will work in your local environment. They'll let you know which trees are high maintenance and which ones will grow without requiring too much help. Furthermore, picking a spot for the tree is more complicated than most people think. Arborists assess the space needed, the soil quality, water sources, lighting and shade, and so much more. They also know the proper procedures and timing, all so the tree can grow to its full potential.

Plant Health and Care

Arborists also act as tree doctors of sorts, meaning they can diagnose and treat any diseases, infestations, or other risks to your tree's health. They also require preventative maintenance and annual check-ups so they can survive harsh winters or intense summers. A certified arborist is an expert at both treating and preventing a multitude of issues that can cause your trees discomfort or stunt their growth.

Emergency Care

There are lots of reasons you may need emergency tree care. The most common is an intense storm that leaves precarious branches dangling, but it can also be warranted if you notice an investigation or rotting limb. It's best to address the issue right away before a branch falls or the tree is harmed beyond repair. Arborists can often be there quickly so they can solve problems efficiently.

Consultancy

Sometimes, you just need advice. Arborists are the experts, and they can offer tons of insight into taking better care of your trees. Even if you think your tree is perfectly healthy, they can offer advice on ensuring your tree is thriving, not just surviving. Maybe you've done everything in your power to solve a problem like rotting limbs, but it just keeps coming back. Arborists are exceptional resources and can offer unexpected solutions. If you care about your trees and shrubs, they're great to learn from.

Choosing an Arborist

Ensure They're Certified

There are many tree trimming services out there, but you want to make sure the company you choose has a certified professional on staff. They have the education and scientific background necessary to properly address problems in a way that's best for both you and the tree. Tree pruning, for example, is a science that needs to be taken seriously. Not only does it involve dangerous heights and tools, but improper pruning can kill your trees and spread disease. Even if the tree isn't killed, a bad tree trimming service can leave its branches looking unsightly.

Looking Into Testimonials and Reviews

Finding reviews is essential to hiring a tree service. Previous customers will be the first to complain about bad practices like improperly addressed diseases, bad advice, or bad customer service. You want someone who's open to questions and willing to answer them as well as someone who genuinely cares about the health of the tree. Look for reviews that mention the service being a good educator who took their time with the tree while also addressing the homeowner's concerns. Also, any good tree service will provide references if you ask for them, so don't be afraid to ask for testimonials from the company itself.

Ask Questions

Asking the right questions is also crucial when picking an arborist. Not only does it test their knowledge and patience, but it ensures they have the proper qualifications. We already discussed the importance of arborist certification, but one of the other most important questions you should ask is if they're both licensed and insured. Tree services, especially pruning and trimming, can be very dangerous work, and you want to make sure you aren't held responsible for any injuries that may occur on your property. Also, if they aren't licensed, both you and the company can be in trouble later down the line.

Another thing you want to inquire about is their certifications. There are many certifications for tree services and arborists out there, so be sure to look for a company with a Tree Care Industry Association accreditation. Accreditation from the TCIA means the company is recognized for its knowledge of the industry as well as proper safety procedures.

Now that you know what an arborist is, the services they provide, and how to find professionals, you're ready to hire one! It's very important to note that beyond basic tree care like watering and fertilizing, tree services should be left to professionals. Certified arborists commit a lot of time to learning what they know, and they're there to help. Whether you need a service or just advice, reach out to your local arborist for any tree-related help. Looking for reliable arborists? Give us a call at Eduardo's Tree Service today to learn more about the services we offer!