If you are fortunate enough to have a tree or multiple trees on your property, you are blessed with all the beauty and benefits trees offer. From stunning scenery to higher quality air to plentiful shade in the hot summer’s heat, trees make all the difference in a landscape design. Like any living thing, trees need to be cared for, which falls to you as their owner. Whether you want to add more trees to your property, assess your current trees’ health, perform tree care and maintenance, or have a tree or stump removed, you will likely need the help of a professional service. Today, we share the difference between an arborist and a tree trimmer, when to use each, and how to find a reputable service near you.
What is an Arborist?
An arborist also called a tree doctor or tree surgeon, is a highly trained and tested professional who deals with the art and science of trees, including planting, maintenance, and providing diagnostics on the health of trees. Similar to a human doctor, a certified arborist goes through an intensive training process, covering classes on tree biology, disease, growth patterns, climates, and more. Afterward, they must pass a rigorous exam for accreditation and participate in continuing education to maintain their certification in arboriculture. An arborist is considered the highest level in the tree industry for care and maintenance, and reputable landscaping or tree services companies always have certified arborists on staff.
What is a Tree Trimmer?
While an arborist is like a doctor, a tree trimmer is like a nurse or technician. While they have some training, they typically learn much of their working knowledge on the job. While they don’t have the same intensive knowledge, they are well-versed in proper tree care techniques. When initiating services, they either follow the recommendations provided by a certified arborist or practice minimal-risk services such as shrubbery trimming. A landscaping or tree service company will typically have a few tree trimmers on staff as a part of their maintenance team.
When Do You Need an Arborist vs. a Tree Trimmer?
It is essential to recognize that tree care can be dangerous. The “average” fully-grown tree can weigh upwards of a ton, making it a severe safety risk to people, buildings, and the surrounding environment. The last thing you want is to have a random person attempt to cut down a tree and have it land on a car, building, or power line. Even a task that appears to be simple, like cutting down a branch, can be dangerous to the average person while also risking the life of the tree.
Certified arborists have extensive knowledge of the health, appearance, lifespan, and surrounding environments of most species of trees. It is recommended to utilize arborist services when:
- Planting new trees on a property
- Initiating tree assessments to analyze health & safety
- Performing tree extensive tree pruning for safety, aesthetics, disease, & storm damage
- Executing large tree & stump removal
When a certified arborist performs these tasks, you can rest assured that your property, building, and the surrounding landscaping will be kept safe and healthy.
On the other hand, tree trimmers can be utilized to perform small projects that have a minimal risk to the health and safety of the tree and its environment, such as minor pruning, stump grinding, etc. Alternatively, tree trimmers often make up a tree-trimming service team, aiding certified arborists in their tasks.
How to Find a Reputable Tree Service Company?
While hiring “that guy” your friend knows to perform your tree care may be tempting, professional services are worth the investment. A professional tree company utilizes its intensive knowledge of trees and the environment to ensure a high-quality service. They use specialized equipment, uphold the highest safety standards, and are insured, so you never have to worry!
To find a trustworthy tree trimming service, you will want to vet your local companies to verify they have certified arborists on staff, are insured, and have good standing with the Better Business Bureau. We also recommend asking around to discover their reputation and to request referrals along with a precise estimate. You want a transparent, beloved local company that has you and your trees’ best interest at heart.
Boyd’s Tree: Your Arborist & Tree Trimmer Local Service
Boyd’s Tree Service is a full-service tree care business serving the greater Tri-Cities area. Tending to trees in dangerous and tight-fitting places is our specialty. Our crew is highly trained and holds accreditation as certified arborists. We have the tools, skills, and experience to make sure the job is done quickly, efficiently, and right the first time to ensure the health and safety of your trees and property.
Whether you are looking for residential or commercial tree services, we are fully equipped to offer you a complete range of tree care and stump removal options. Our services include:
- Emergency tree service
- Tree removal
- Power line clearing
- Pruning & trimming
- Stump removal
- Shrubbery trimming & removal
If you are ready to accomplish all your tree care needs, please complete our contact form to receive a free estimate of your project as well as to answer any questions you may have. If you are in the Tri-Cities and surrounding area, you can call us at any time if you want to speak to someone directly for more information.
