What is an Arborist?

An arborist is a specialist in the care of individual trees. Arborists are knowledgeable about the needs of trees, and are trained and equipped to provide proper care. 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. Pruning or removing trees, especially large trees, can be dangerous work. Those trained and equipped to work safely in trees should only do tree work.

Tree care involves pruning, trimming, removing branches and cleanup. Though not as specialized as an arborist, tree care saves you the effort of doing the labor yourself.

Suggestions on Selecting a Tree Service or Arborist

Most reputable tree care companies have all the work they can handle without going door to door. People who aren't competent arborists may solicit tree work after storms, seeing an opportunity to earn quick money. Storm damage creates high risk situations for both workers and property.

Good tree work is not inexpensive. A good arborist must carry several kinds of insurance as well as pay for expensive and specialized equipment. Beware of estimates that fall well below the average.

Ask for local references. Take a look at some of the work and if possible, talk with former clients. Experience, education and a good reputation are signs of a good arborist.

• Caring for trees regularly is more cost effective than neglecting them and dealing with the damage. Studies published in the Journal of Arboriculture have demonstrated that it is actually cheaper to regularly prune trees rather than neglecting them and cleaning up the resulting damage! That is why many cities have tree care crews, or they contract with tree companies, to regularly prune and care for trees.
• Trees can increase the value of your property up to 25% percent or more based on the location, species, and condition of the tree.
• Trees also have environmental and social benefits. Various studies have shown that trees reduce pollution in many ways, as well as help social behavior improve by raising the self-esteem of neighborhoods.
• Deciduous trees placed on south and west sides of a house provide shade and can lower air conditioning cost by 10-15%.
• Street trees provide shade and cover for paved surfaces reducing run-off and reflected heat. Street trees also improve in the curb appeal of a neighborhood, increasing real estate values by 5-20%!