Trees are a delicate balance of delicate forms, and they always have at least one lifeline to the outside world. The tree is alive because it can draw particular resources, such as carbon dioxide and water, from the environment.

Without that ability to draw from the outside, trees in captivity eventually die. If you don’t want to be left with a dead tree, then you need an arborist.

An arborist is someone who is trained in the preservation of trees. That can cover a variety of things from planting new trees, to revitalizing damaged ones.

Although you might know an arborist, you may not understand what a certified arborist does. That’s why today, we’re taking a closer look at what a certified arborist does, and five other things you need to know.

It’s time to learn what is a certified arborist and all about them.

1. What are the Benefits of Hiring a Certified Arborist?

Hiring a certified arborist provides a variety of benefits, including increased safety and security, improved aesthetics, and better tree health. Certified arborists have extensive knowledge and experience in the care of trees, providing a better understanding of the species and recommended practices.

This allows for quick identification and response to potential hazards, such as damaged or hazardous tree limbs. Furthermore, certified arborists specialize in tree selection, location, planting, transplanting, pruning, and removal for optimal health and aesthetic appeal.

They are also able to properly diagnose diseases and pests that threaten the health of the trees, allowing for quick and effective interventions. Ultimately, hiring a certified arborist like those from Pelfrey Tree is an excellent way to ensure safe and healthy trees.

2. The Cost of Hiring a Certified Arborist

The cost of hiring a certified arborist varies depending on a variety of factors. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50-$150 per hour for services. These costs may include diagnostic assessment of a tree’s health, pruning and trimming, hazard assessment and mitigation, cabling and bracing where appropriate, proper diagnosis and treatment of tree diseases and pests, and more.

The cost also depends on the size of the tree and the job you require. An arborist may also charge for extra services, such as his or her time required to prepare a tree report, travel expenses, or any additional travel or supplies required for a job.

Ultimately, costs will depend on the experience and expertise of the arborist. However, due to their specialized knowledge and experience, certified arborists often provide superior quality work at competitive rates.

3. How Can You Locate a Certified Arborist?

Finding a certified arborist should be a priority if you are considering any tree service. A certified arborist is an individual who has acquired the knowledge, skills, and experience in arboriculture.

The certifying organization of a certified arborist is the International Society of Arboriculture. The International Society of Arboriculture is the world’s leading professional arboriculture organization that provides certification and testing.

To find a local, certified arborist, you can search the ISA website and use their online referral tool or use a search engine to find “certified arborists” in your area. You can also contact various tree care companies to ask if they employ certified arborists and inquire about business credentials.

Before hiring any arborists, make sure to ask for proof of certification and investigate references for past work before any services are performed.

4. What Kind of Education and Experience Does an Arborist Have?

An arborist is a professional who specializes in the care and maintenance of trees and other woody shrubs. An arborist’s education and experience involves a variety of different topics and techniques related to the care of trees.

They typically have a bachelor’s degree in forestry, horticulture, or plant science, as well as specialized training in hard and soft landscape design, pesticide application, soil management, and tree medicine.

An arborist typically has several years of experience in tree pruning, cutting, thinning, and removal techniques. They know identification of tree diseases and insects, have a keen eye for structure and balance, and employ proper pruning methods.

Arborists also have experience in cabling, bracing, tree-climbing techniques, and the utilization of specialized equipment like tree shears, chainsaw, and aerial lifts. They are experts in tree selection and can provide guidance on best management practices, proper watering, fertilizing, mulching, and pest control. They provide necessary recommendations for the preservation and health of trees.

5. Prerequisites to Becoming a Certified Arborist

Becoming a certified arborist is a rigorous process that requires knowledge, skill, and diligence. The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) offers three levels of certification: Certified Arborist, Municipal Specialist, and Board Certified Master Arborist. Each level has specific prerequisites in order to be eligible for the certification.

The Certified Arborist prerequisite includes a combination of experience and education, such as attainment of a Bachelor’s degree in horticulture or other related field within a two year time period, and at least three years of experience in arboriculture.

For the Municipal Specialist, the prerequisite includes at minimum a Bachelor’s degree in forestry or a related field, as well as three to five years of professional experience in arboriculture in a local, municipal, or state-level government position.

Finally, the Board Certified Master Arborist prerequisite includes a combination of experience, such as serving as a Certified Arborist for five consecutive years and completing a series of online courses and exams.

All three levels of certification require applicants to maintain continual learning and training to keep up with the latest advancements in arboriculture technology and best practices. 

Learn What Is a Certified Arborist

So, what is a certified arborist? They are someone who has expertise in tree care and maintenance. They can care for trees from careful pruning and trimming to removal services when needed. Overall, they promote maximum health for trees and safety for all.

In conclusion, if you care about your trees, you should strongly consider hiring a certified arborist. Get started today and see the difference it can make!

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