What is an Arborist and What do they do?

Have you ever wondered what an arborist does? Or when you might need one? Well if you don’t know, you should, because they are extremely important and helpful when it comes to the health of your trees and landscape. “An arborist is a specially trained professional who deals with the art and science of planting, caring, maintaining, and diagnosing trees, shrubberies, and other woody plant life.” (American Arborists) So what exactly is it that they do? What services do they provide?

Services an arborist can provide include (ISA, Trees Are Good):

  • Pruning. An arborist can determine the type of pruning necessary to maintain or improve the health, appearance, and safety of trees.

  • Tree Removal. Although tree removal is a last resort, there are circumstances when it is necessary. An arborist can help decide whether a tree should be removed.

  • Emergency Tree Care. An arborist can assist in performing emergency tree care in a safe manner, while reducing further risk of damage to property.

  • Planting. Some arborists plant trees, and most can recommend species that are appropriate for a particular location.

  • Plant Health Care. Preventive maintenance helps keep trees in good health while reducing any insect, disease, or site problems.

  • Many other services. Consulting services, tree risk assessment, cabling and bracing trees, etc.

Why is this stuff important? Well, “Proper tree care is an investment that can lead to substantial returns. Well managed trees are attractive and can add considerable value to your property. Poorly maintained trees can be a significant liability.”(Purdue University)

So if you want to ensure your trees are in good health or need assistance with pruning or removal make sure your arborist is certified. “Certified Arborists are individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge in the art and science of tree care through experience and by passing a comprehensive examination developed by some of the nation’s leading experts on tree care.” (ISA, Trees Are Good) “Anyone with a chainsaw can chop up tree branches and limbs and call it pruning. It’s the knowledge and expertise in the proper way of pruning, trimming, and removing trees that really makes a difference.” (American Arborists)

Browning Tree Service employs Joshua Browning ISA certified arborist license #KY-9849A and is a proud member of Indiana Arborist Association and International Society of Arboriculture, serving the West Lafayette and Lafayette, Indiana area!

Resources:

https://www.americanarborists.net/tree-tips/2017/march/what-is-an-arborist-anyway-/

https://www.treesaregood.org/treeowner/whyhireanarborist

https://www.extension.purdue.edu/extmedia/FNR/FNR-FAQ-13-W.pdf