Arborists are tree professionals who care for, cultivate, manage and rehabilitate trees and other woody plants. They also perform tree pruning and trimming. In addition, they diagnose and treat tree health problems and help prevent tree damage.
A career as an arborist requires knowledge of the regional flora and climate, physical fitness and stamina, and safety skills while working at heights. They use specialised equipment and methods to access trees, and they work on a variety of projects including planting new trees and treating existing ones to preserve their health.
To become an arborist, you need a high school diploma or equivalent and training in horticulture or forestry. Some schools may offer a combination of on-the-job training and classroom study to develop your skills. You can then pursue formal certification through an association such as the International Society of Arboriculture.
The job duties of an arborist are to evaluate the condition of trees, provide advice on their care and make recommendations for pruning, fertilization, insect control and tree removal when needed. Their responsibility is to keep trees healthy and vibrant, and their services are vital for maintaining a property’s value.
Besides providing tangible benefits such as shade, oxygen production and air filtration, trees are also essential to the aesthetic quality of cities. They provide natural harmony, enhance public space and create a sense of scale that gives people confidence in their surroundings.
They are an important part of a community’s greening efforts, and urban planners should work closely with arborists to ensure the health and longevity of their public trees. An arborist can also advise on tree preservation laws, evaluating the impact of root systems on boundaries and other factors that may affect property owners’ rights.
When you are ready to hire an arborist, look for one with a certified professional title and the proper insurances. This includes liability and workers’ compensation, which will protect you if your arborist is injured in the course of work or on a ladder.
You can find an arborist on the internet or through a local tree company, but it’s better to get a recommendation from a trusted friend who works with a certified professional. They will likely have the best experience and knowledge for your specific needs.
A typical day in the life of an arborist starts with a walk through your property, where they inspect your trees and discuss their overall condition. This helps them figure out what’s causing them to be unhealthy, and they can recommend the best ways to deal with the problem.
After assessing the situation, they start the tree-trimming and pruning process. They cut back branches that are too close together, remove dead limbs, and trim any excess branches that are growing into the main trunk or spreading outward.
They also prune out any dangerous or damaging limbs. If a tree is diseased or decaying, they may have to remove the entire tree.
It’s not uncommon to encounter a few tree problems that require immediate attention, but most arborists focus on prevention and maintenance. A regular checkup with a certified arborist is the best way to ensure that your trees will last for years to come.