How to hire an arborist
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Alanna Hickey
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When we bought our home last October, I couldn’t tell you much about the twelve trees dotting the property. Then, sometime between the sewer lateral repair and the visit from the drainage contractor, a tree in our backyard began distracting from the ache in our wallets with its eye-catching show. Its branches were quickly covered in unfurling pale-pink petals, exposing a brilliant multi-stamen center. I gasped at the realization; sure, our house came with some unglamorous repairs, but it also had an apple tree! I knew that I needed a professional to help me keep this coveted asset and beneficial pollinator plant happy and healthy for years to come, but where to start?
Fruit trees require regular pruning in order to prevent disease, regulate fruit growth, and renew fruitwood. Photo: Anastasiya Romanova/UnsplashWhat is an arborist?
It can be difficult to know when to call on an arborist, as opposed to a landscaper or gardener. But there are important distinctions between them. Unlike landscaping professionals, arborists can gain certification from an organization called the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). This credential guarantees that ISA-certified arborists are trained in the best disease prevention and diagnosis techniques, proper pruning, insect control, tree removal, routine care and maintenance, and appropriate planting. Whereas a landscaping professional may make pruning decisions based primarily on aesthetic design, an arborist keeps the long-term health of your trees and their surroundings at the forefront of their work. Arborists certified by either the ISA or the American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA) must maintain their certification through continuing education courses and occasional workshops. As the ISA warns, the obligation to care for your trees falls squarely on the homeowner, and a trained arborist will know best when it comes to safely caring for your trees.
Why hire one?
John Davy, one of the forefathers of modern arboriculture, reminds us "Your trees, many of them the product of several generations, are priceless..."There are a wide variety of reasons one might have for hiring an arborist, and your particular circumstances should inform who you ask to help you with your trees. Here are some of the most common reasons for calling on an arborist.
- Routine maintenance: Trees require regular care, and healthy trees add significant value to your property! An annual appointment with an arborist can ensure your trees remain healthy for generations to come.
- Emergency care or physical damage: Tree damage happens, and if handled inappropriately, a broken limb can put your home and tree at risk. Arborists are ready to respond to emergency care calls and can give your tree the best chance at survival.
- Cultural issues: Common cultural practices, including lawn mowing, sprinkler systems, and fertilizer and mulch application, can adversely affect your trees. A certified arborist can identify issues in your regular landscape maintenance plan and set your trees up for success.
- Disease or pest diagnosis and treatment: Certified arborists have years of experience inspecting and evaluating trees. They can help control disease and pest problems before lasting damage sets in. If you notice any major changes in one of your trees, play it safe and call a professional!
- Tree planting: Arborists can also prevent problems before they start by creating a plan for any new trees you hope to introduce to your property.
- Tree removal: Tree removal can be a dangerous, messy job. Look for a licensed and insured arborist with experience in tree removal. Many offer free estimates.
How to find your arborist.
Arborists certified by the ISA are required to keep up with regular training; they're your best resource of long-term tree health. Photo: Topi PigulaISA has created a user-friendly tool to help you find local certified arborists. Search by your location at: https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist.
Ideally, you’ll cultivate a long-term relationship with your arborist, so it’s a good idea to spend some time finding someone you trust to make the best decisions for your trees. Collect quotes from multiple certified arborists up front, and be sure to check their references and get all of your agreements in writing before work begins. Your relationship with your arborist can keep your property safe and healthy for years to come! And it can keep your neighbors full of apple galette through the fall.
