What is a Certified Arborist?

You wouldn't ask your dentist for LASIK eye surgery, and you wouldn't pick a surgeon who isn't board certified in ocular surgery. You're aware that an individual with insufficient qualifications is hazardous. But have you ever considered that selecting a tree service might be just as dangerous?

When your trees require assistance, you should contact a certified arborist.

Certified arborist, who?

Continue reading to find out.

Who Are They?

A certified arborist is a tree care professional who has achieved a level of knowledge in the art and science of planting, caring for, and maintaining individual trees.

Certified arborists must demonstrate their mastery of tree biology and the principles of proper tree care.

Arborists who have achieved certifications have gone through a rigorous process that includes an examination and review of their work experience.

What is an ISA Arborist Certification?

The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) is a worldwide professional organization that certifies arborists. To become certified, an individual must pass an examination administered by the ISA.

To achieve the ISA Certified Arborist credential, candidates must pass an examination that covers all aspects of tree care. They must also adhere to a code of ethics and complete continuing education requirements on an annual basis.

What Does an Arborist Do?

Arborists provide a wide range of tree care services, including:

• Pruning - Trimming tree branches to remove dead wood, improve aesthetics, or allow more sunlight to reach the ground beneath the tree.
• Fertilizing - Applying nutrients to the soil to promote growth and health.
• Soil Management - Amending the soil to improve drainage or aeration.
• Pest and Disease Control - Identifying and treating problems caused by insects, diseases, or other pests.
• Tree Removal - Cutting down trees that are dead, dying, or pose a hazard to people or property.
• Tree Planting - Selecting, planting, and caring for trees.

Arborists also provide consulting services to help property owners manage their trees. They can assess the health of a tree, recommend ways to improve its growth, and provide advice on how to best take care of it.

Why Should You Hire an Arborist?

There're many reasons to hire a certified arborist, but the most crucial one is safety. Tree work is dangerous, so when you hire an uncertified tree services company, you risk having inexperienced workers who may not be familiar with proper tree care techniques. This could result in tree and property damage or even injuries to you.

Hiring a certified arborist is also insurance against liability. If someone is injured or property is damaged while an unqualified individual is performing tree work, you could be held responsible.

Aside from their knowledge about tree biology and proper tree care, certified arborists have the training and experience in safe work practices. They know how to use the latest equipment and techniques to get the job done efficiently.

Hiring a certified arborist is the best way to ensure that your trees will be in good hands. These professionals have the knowledge and experience to provide your trees with the best possible care they need to stay healthy and safe.

How to Find an Arborist Near You?

If you're looking for a certified arborist in your area, the best place to start is the ISA website. There, you can search for arborists by location and find contact information.

You can also ask your friends, family, or neighbors if they know of any reputable tree care companies in your area. Once you've compiled a list of potential candidates, be sure to do your research before hiring anyone.

Check out online reviews and ask each company for references. Then, narrow down your list to three or four companies and set up consultations to get more information about their services and fees.

When meeting with an arborist, be sure to ask about their qualifications, experience, and rates. Make sure that you choose someone with experience working in your geographic area and with trees similar to the ones you have. 

Finally, always get a written estimate before work begins. This will help you understand the scope of the project and avoid any surprises later on. Be sure to ask about any additional charges, such as travel time or disposal fees.

Now that you know what an arborist is and why you should hire one, you're ready to find the right professional for your tree care needs.

What's Next?

If you're in South Florida and require tree services, contact Real Tree Trimming & Landscaping, Inc. We're a team of ISA-certified arborists with years of experience working in the area. Our tree care experts can help keep your trees healthy and beautiful for years to come.

We'll be happy to answer any questions you have and provide you with a free estimate.

If you would like advise from an ISA Board Certified Arborist, please don't hesitate to give us a call.