Tree Care Professionals vs. "Tree Guys"
Too many of our valuable trees are permanently disfigured and irreparably damaged through unnecessary over-pruning and improper pruning practices. Mature trees rarely require major surgery or large pruning doses, so why is this happening?
Sadly, the answer is that many of the “tree trimmers” in our area have little idea what they’re doing. Fear tactics are often employed to sell the idea that the safety of your home is directly proportionate to the removal of large branches and leaf area. Nothing could be farther from the truth. As well, many healthy trees are unnecessarily removed by the unscrupulous tree trimmer without any valid data.
- Who can you trust to protect your investment with science-based facts about the care of trees?
- How can you avoid wasting time trying to make sense of conflicting recommendations?
- How can you evaluate the huge pricing ranges for the same amount of work?
- In short, how do you avoid the disastrous pitfalls of fly-by-night tree service companies interested only in making a profit?
Certified Arborist vs. Tree Guy
| Certified Arborist | Tree Guy |
|---|---|
| Chose a career | Has a job |
| 3 year minimum work experience in the field | Training unknown |
| Passed comprehensive exam in arboriculture | No |
| Understands tree anatomy and processes | Doubtful |
| Understands soil and water management | Doubtful |
| Understands nutrient requirements | Doubtful |
| Understands proper tree cultural practices | Doubtful |
| Practices ANSI 300 pruning techniques | Doubtful |
| Adheres to ANSI Z.133 and OSHA safety standards | Doubtful |
| Able to diagnose and treat insect infestations | Doubtful |
| Able to diagnose and treat diseases | Doubtful |
| Able to assess tree risk | Doubtful |
| Trained in advanced rigging techniques | Doubtful |
