With the rising costs of purchases and services nowadays, many customers consider the do-it-yourself route. It is an understandable and noble task to take on projects yourself around the home. However, some things are better left in the hands of certified professionals. Take tree work for example. Many customers haul out the clippers and chainsaw from the garage to give their yard a go, but does this pose a disadvantage for the trees and shrubs that are targeted? One might ask themselves, “Why should I hire an arborist?”.

Well, let’s start with the obvious facts. Arborists are the experts who know the dos and don’ts with respect to removals, pruning and planting. They are trained to operate equipment properly and safely and utilize specialized equipment that most homeowners do not possess.  Additionally, an arborist can give great advice about specific topics like planting or disease processes, the benefits of soil aeration and fertilization to name a few.

Tree Removal

To elaborate on these areas further, let’s discuss tree removal. An arborist can help a customer decide if a tree truly requires a removal. Dying or dead specimens may seem like obvious candidates for tree removal, however tree crowding or endangerment to the customer may be difficult for the customer to determine.

Sometimes, pruning alone does not correct a tree obstruction, thus requiring removal. Other reasons might encompass customer preference for a different species to be planted. A skilled arborist would be able to recommend an appropriate tree to suit soil conditions, location, growth rate etc.

Pruning

Pruning is another area where many customers attempt to do it themselves. However, skilled arborists are able to go above and beyond the simple pruning shears and clipping to create eye-pleasing grounds with perfect cuts. Considerations of health improvement or maintenance for fostering growth may not be foremost in the customer’s mind. Tree and shrub appearance and shaping would require the finesse of the arborist’s work. Allowing adequate sunlight to filter through via strategic pruning is another skill the customer might not be able to undertake. Elimination of dead inner branches (aka “deadwooding”) is equally an important pruning skill to master.

At times, there might be great risk to the home owner to take on a pruning job on their own.  Situations where trees have cracked in stormy weather or have been ravaged by rot and disease pose an endangerment. This would be best taken on by an experienced arborist.

Planting

As mentioned earlier, planting is yet another big scope of tree work that may befuddle the homeowner. Knowing the right tree species to plant in one’s yard can make a huge difference between a thriving, majestic specimen or a dwindling one. Adequate sunlight, wind exposure, soil acidity, proclivity to disease and compromised room for growth are certainly factors that a skilled arborist can discuss.

Choosing the Right Arborist to Hire

Having bestowed some of the virtues of hiring an arborist, one should consider that not all arborists possess the same degree of expertise and experience. Some simple ways to filter through the selection of arborists out there working for various tree companies is to ask about certification, insurance and referrals.

Certified arborists are individuals who possess accreditation through organizations such as the International Society of Arboriculture (I.S.A.). This organization requires its members to meet a standard level of experience and knowledge base and pass a comprehensive exam. They are required to maintain certification through continuing education to remain current on industry practices and techniques.

Proof of insurance is paramount for arborists to possess for ensuring that any tree work that is done covers property and personal accidents should they arise. Equally important is WSIB. The homeowner should be able to ask for these specific documents to view before any tree work is rendered.

Doing one’s homework and checking out references is always a great practice when trying to find the right arborist for the job. Google reviews, Homestar reviews or word of mouth cannot be underrated.

So, when you’re thinking of doing a solo pruning job or struggling to remove or plant a tree, think again. Perhaps there is more to meet the eye when considering a tree job around the home. Hire an arborist. Your trees will thank you!

If you’re thinking about hiring an arborist, request a quote with our certified arborists!

Alexander Tree Care is a leading tree services provider in Newmarket and Aurora, Ontario.  An  I.S.A  Certified arborist is on staff at all times to provide  professional advice and assistance for a variety of tree and shrub services. Alexander Tree Care also offers tree services in Richmond Hill, Markham, Vaughan, Bradford, Holland Landing, Sharon, Mount Albert, King Township and Uxbridge. We are fully insured and covered by WSIB.