How to Choose an Arborist
Ensure your tree’s continued health
What is an Arborist, and why should I hire one?
Arborists are specially trained professionals certified in the planting, care, and maintenance of trees. Arborists can help you and your trees with proper tree care, as well as diagnosing issues with your trees. This helps to protect trees and your property while increasing benefits including higher property values and enhanced air quality. Without proper tree care, trees can become a liability. Certified Arborists have the knowledge and skills to safely provide care for your trees.
What types of services can an Arborist offer?
Certified Arborists can provide, but are not limited to, the following services:
- Pruning: Arborists can determine the type of pruning needed to maintain the tree’s health. Pruning can be dangerous work, and Arborists know proper safety techniques.
- Tree Removal: Whether it’s due to old age, disease, or an act of nature, there are times when tree removal is necessary. Arborists have the skills and knowledge to determine if removal is necessary, and to take down trees safely if required.
- Emergency Tree Care: In the case of storms or other sudden damage to trees, Arborists can assess trees and determine the best course of action (pruning, removal, etc.).
- Tree Planting: Arborists can recommend the right tree for the right place. Some Arborists will even plant the tree for you.
Certified Arborists can provide, but are not limited to, the following services:
Where can I hire a Certified Arborist?
Here are a few tips for selecting an arborist near you:
- Look for someone who is licensed by an accredited organization, such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Arborists in Western Pennsylvania should also be members of the local Penn Del chapter of the ISA.
- Make sure that the person or company you choose has insurance.
- It’s always a good idea to consider more than one bid and be sure to get the bid in writing.
- In addition to accreditation, membership in other organizations like the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) or the American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA) shows a willingness to stay up-to-date on the latest information.