Tree pruners Although both usually offer tree pruning services, as well as planting and removal, only arborists are truly trained and educated to protect the health of trees and care for and plant them properly. Those who choose to work with trees can choose several types of jobs in the field. Two of those jobs, those of tree surgeon and arborist, are often referred to interchangeably, but in reality they are very different. Arborists require more formal education, while tree surgeons gain experience in the field.
Both jobs can overlap, depending on the company providing tree services, and both jobs require extensive knowledge and experience working with trees. One of the biggest differences between different types of tree service experts is the level and depth of education. While technically anyone can label themselves an “arborist,” only tree experts with the appropriate training and qualifications can earn ISA certification. There may be many companies in your area that provide tree services that call themselves arborists, even if they don't have any official training.
The International Society of Arboriculture program requires strong training, educational credits, experience and testing so that tree professionals can earn the right to call themselves ISA-certified arborists. Since tree care can be a hazardous job, you also won't know if your tree surgeon has received appropriate training in safety procedures, unless you can demonstrate that you are also an ISA certified arborist. They are also the ones who generally recommend where a tree should be planted depending on the type of tree and its environmental environment. These terms simply don't tell you enough about what a company does and what its qualifications are, which means that anyone can offer these services, regardless of whether or not they have education or experience in tree health.
One of the most important things that homeowners and business owners should consider when hiring a tree service company is whether the company is properly insured and properly licensed. There are many reputable and experienced tree surgeons, but there are also many who don't have the knowledge necessary to protect and save a tree. However, there are also many people who call themselves tree surgeons and have little or no training or advanced knowledge about trees; in reality, they just don't know what they're getting. As a homeowner, you need to know this reality and the distinction between an ISA-certified arborist and other “tree service experts.” The annual cost of a tree inspection includes a tour of the entire property to thoroughly examine all trees and shrubs to determine if any nutrients are lacking and identify signs of pests and diseases.
They may know the basics of tree pruning, but there's no guarantee that they have advanced skills, knowledge, and training to properly care for trees in the right way. To give your trees the best chance of growing and thriving, look for tree pruning companies that employ certified arborists.
