Frequently Asked Questions 

A Certified Arborist brings extensive knowledge about:

• Tree biology and proper tree care techniques
• Safe and effective pruning and removal methods
• Identification and treatment of pests and diseases
• Professional safety protocols
• Specialized equipment operation

Through rigorous training and certification by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), Certified Arborists demonstrate their expertise and commitment to following industry best practices. They must maintain their certification through ongoing education and adhere to a professional code of ethics.

While anyone can offer tree services, only Certified Arborists have verified credentials and expertise. Other tree workers may include:

• General landscapers who primarily focus on lawn care and basic plant maintenance
• Independent workers with varying levels of experience but no formal qualifications
• Tree service workers who have some training but lack professional certification

The key difference is that Certified Arborists have proven their knowledge through testing and must maintain their expertise through continuing education.

Yes, especially when you consider that mature trees add significant value to your property. Here's why:

• Proper pruning by an arborist promotes long-term tree health and prevents costly damage
• Expert knowledge helps avoid common mistakes that can lead to tree decline
• Professional assessment can identify potential tree issues before they become major problems
• Correct pruning techniques eliminate the need for repeated "fix-it" pruning
• Proper care extends the life of your trees, protecting your landscape investment

While you can handle some basic tree care, safety should be your primary concern:

DO:

• Prune branches you can reach while standing firmly on the ground
• Remove small dead branches
• Clean up fallen twigs and leaves

DON'T:

• Use ladders for tree work
• Attempt to remove large branches
• Work near power lines
• Climb trees to prune them

Tree work consistently ranks as one of the most hazardous professions because it involves:

• Working at significant heights
• Handling heavy, unpredictable tree sections
• Operating powerful equipment like chainsaws and chippers
• Navigating confined spaces between buildings
• Working near electrical lines
• Managing complex rigging systems

This is why Certified Arborists use specialized safety equipment and follow strict safety protocols.

Call a Certified Arborist when you notice or have:

• Signs of tree illness or pest problems
• Dead or broken branches
• Trees growing too close to structures
• Storm damage
• A need for routine pruning
• Questions about tree planting or selection

Early intervention by an arborist often prevents more serious problems from developing.

While landscapers excel at maintaining lawns and ornamental plants, tree work requires specialized knowledge, insurance, and equipment that the typical landscaper doesn't possess. For example:

• Arborists understand tree biology and growth patterns, so they know how trees will react to different types of damage and pruning cuts.
• Arborists are trained in proper pruning techniques that promote long-term health, rather than using common but highly damaging pruning methods like tree topping and lion-tailing.
• They carry appropriate insurance for elevated work. Usually, this refers to any work done at heights above 15 feet. Landscaper insurance does not cover work done this high above the ground.
• Arborists have specialized equipment for safe tree work, such as spider lifts, grapples, and bucket trucks.
• They focus on both the current appearance of your trees and future tree health, whereas landscape crews are most often concerned primarily about appearance.

Every ISA Certified Arborist has a unique certification number. You can verify credentials at https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist. Always ask for:

• Their ISA certification number
• Proof of insurance (including workers compensation)
• Local references
• A written estimate