A licensed arborist is a tree care professional that has the knowledge, experience, and skills necessary to diagnose and treat various types of problems with trees. They have the credentials to provide services that include tree planting, pruning, removing damaged or unhealthy trees, and cabling and bracing trees to prevent damage from high winds or heavy snow. Licensed arborists are also trained in a variety of safety procedures to protect themselves and others when performing work on trees, including climbing.
Licensed arborists are professionals that have passed a rigorous exam set by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). To become licensed, arborists must demonstrate their knowledge in several areas such as tree biology, pest control, and the principles of arboriculture. Additionally, they must complete continuing education programs and adhere to a code of ethics in order to maintain their certification.
There are many benefits to working with a licensed arborist and property owners should always consider hiring one. They are highly trained in all aspects of tree care, including planting, removal, pruning, and fertilizing. In addition, they understand the environmental, aesthetic, and health benefits of healthy trees and will help homeowners select the right trees for their yard or business.
Certified arborists are well educated, and they stay up-to-date on current tree care best practices. They are also insured and bonded, so they will cover any on-the-job injuries or damages. They are also required to have a state license, which ensures that they comply with all local regulations.
During a tree consultation, an arborist will evaluate the health of a tree and recommend a plan to stop any decline. This may involve pruning, which involves removing dead or dangerous branches from the trees to prevent disease or to shape the tree. In some cases, the ISA may recommend cabling or bracing, which is a process of using wires to support or guide trees. Finally, arborists often provide tree fertilization, which is the process of injecting liquid fertilizer into the soil around a tree.
Trees are an important part of a property’s landscape and can add value to it. But as with any investment, it is vital to properly maintain them. When a tree becomes unhealthy, it can cause damage to the surrounding area and even pose a threat to people or buildings. An experienced arborist can prevent these issues by performing routine maintenance and addressing problems as they arise.
While it is preferable to save a tree rather than have to remove it, there are times when a professional must get rid of a damaged or hazardous tree. Licensed arborists can safely and efficiently remove trees of all sizes.
When choosing a tree service, property owners should always ask to see the company’s ISA license and insurance information. It is illegal to work on a tree without a license, and hiring an unlicensed tree service could result in fines or even injuries. A reputable tree service will have no problem showing you their credentials, so don’t be afraid to ask!