What Is Arborist Consulting?

Whether you need a diagnosis on a diseased tree or expert testimony in a legal case, an arborist consulting is a valuable resource. Arborists are trained to care for trees and have the education, knowledge and experience to help you with any arboricultural problem. They can assess a variety of issues such as tree risk assessment, tree value appraisals and write specifications to ensure that the trees on your property receive proper care. They also provide consultation on urban forest management, construction and development and other projects involving trees.

Trees are vital to our environment and add beauty to the landscape. Unfortunately, they can become damaged and pose a safety risk if not properly maintained. Fortunately, an experienced arborist will be able to diagnose the problem and offer solutions to restore the health of the tree. Whether the damage was caused by storms, high winds or improper pruning, an arborist can advise on the best course of action to take.

Arborists are also experts in the identification and prevention of diseases and pests that can damage or kill trees. When an insect infestation is discovered, they can quarantine the area to prevent the spread and recommend treatments that will protect and preserve the tree’s overall health. They can also identify the signs of stress in a tree and recommend steps to improve air flow, soil conditions or other factors that may be contributing to the problem.

Consulting arborists also work with Landscape Architects, Engineers and Planners to promote “right tree right place” in urban areas. They can assist in developing blue, green strategies and help with permitting to ensure that trees are considered infrastructure for water retention, stormwater management and traffic calming. They can also recommend the best planting procedures and determine if the site has sufficient soil volume to support the desired tree species.

There are many reasons why you may need the services of a Consulting Arborist, such as an emergency tree service after storms or for assessing a tree’s condition during construction. They can provide unbiased opinions and conduct research to assess a particular issue or complete a comprehensive survey of your entire tree canopy. They can also advise on a wide range of other issues related to the health, safety and preservation of trees such as identifying potential risks, writing tree specifications, assessing a project’s impacts on trees and providing expert witness testimony.

Consulting Arborists are different from Practicing Arborists because their focus is on advisory roles, providing analysis and expert advice. They can also obtain additional credentials to specialize in specific areas of arboriculture, such as a Certified Arborist (CA), Tree Appraiser (TA) and Consulting Arborist (RCA). If you’re looking for an Arborist consultant, look no further than Growing Earth Tree. We have one of the highest ratios of ISA Certified Arborists in the industry and can recommend an experienced and knowledgeable tree specialist to address your needs. Contact us today for more information or to discuss your specific project requirements.

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Benefits of Stump Grinding

Stumps are more than just an eyesore; they can also create safety hazards and interfere with the aesthetics of your landscape. Whether you’re planting new trees, adding hardscaping, or putting your property on the market, stump grinding is an excellent option that can improve your yard and add value to your home or commercial property.

Stump Grinding involves chipping away at the stump and roots with a machine that grinds it into wood chips. After the stump is ground, you can reseed, plant new landscaping, or use it as mulch. The woody residue left behind by the stump will eventually decompose and return nutrients to the soil, helping it to become healthier and more able to support growing plants.

The primary benefit of stump grinding is restoring the flow and beauty of your landscape. An old tree stump can cause tripping accidents for visitors or your children, and can be an obstacle for mowers or other equipment. Stumps can also attract unwanted pests such as termites and carpenter ants, which may then spread to nearby healthy trees or even your home. Stumps are also prone to fungal growth, which can affect the surrounding lawn and shrubs. Stump grinding eliminates these issues and creates an attractive, functional yard.

Aside from improving the aesthetics of your property, a professional stump grinding service can also be a cost-effective way to increase your property value. Many potential buyers are turned off by the sight of unsightly stumps, and will be willing to pay more for a home that has them removed.

While some stumps will eventually die out on their own, a professional will remove them more quickly and effectively using the most up-to-date machines in the industry. In addition, a professional will be able to check for and avoid underground pipes and foundations that may be affected by the stump’s roots.

Some species of tree, such as crape myrtles and hackberries, are known to send out regrowth sprouts after a stump is removed. While these sprouts are not a problem when they are kept trimmed and mowed regularly, if left unchecked, they can eventually overtake and damage the root system of nearby trees. Stump grinding can prevent these unwanted regrowths by completely removing the roots below ground level.

Stump grinding is a much faster and more effective solution than stump removal, which requires digging out the remaining roots with a shovel or backhoe. It can also be more expensive, depending on the extent of the work and the size of the stump. For these reasons, it is important to choose a professional, experienced company to complete the job for you. Contact Warner Tree Service’s ISA Certified Arborist, Rick Warner to learn more about the benefits of stump grinding and help you decide what is best for your property.

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What Does an Arborist Do?

Arborists are trained tree care specialists who have the knowledge, skills and equipment to help trees grow healthy and strong. They can diagnose problems and treat them using a variety of treatments and techniques, including pruning, trimming, crown raising and removal, fertilization, insect control and more. They can also provide planting and transplanting guidance, risk assessment services, tree appraisals for insurance claims or property transactions, preservation planning for old or new construction sites, and urban forestry management.

An arborist should be licensed, insured, and have specialized equipment. Reputable companies will charge a fair market rate, so beware of exceptionally low estimates. This could indicate a lack of training, experience, or quality of work. Look for an arborist who has membership in professional organizations and a commitment to ongoing education.

Working as an arborist is physically demanding. It involves long periods of standing or climbing, and exposure to sunlight, wind, rain, snow, ice, and other weather conditions. Arborists may also be exposed to pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, and other chemicals used in the field. They need to wear protective gear such as hard hats, gloves, and chaps. Because they work with power tools and heavy machinery, the job also poses some safety risks. Arborists often drive truck-mounted lifts and use saws that run on gasoline, battery, or electricity, so they must maintain a high level of vehicle and machine maintenance.

In addition to identifying and caring for individual trees, arborists oversee large-scale landscapes, golf courses, parks, and public gardens. They must understand the environmental impact of their decisions, as well as the cultural and aesthetic values of various species of trees. They are responsible for the installation, care, and maintenance of trees and shrubs around structures and buildings, and they often consult with architects, engineers, and landscapers.

A certified arborist has a minimum of three years of full-time work experience and has passed four exams from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). These include Tree Climbing, Tree Anatomy, Tree Identification, and Tree Health Management. Additional exam options allow an arborist to specialize in areas such as municipal and utility arboriculture, and plant health care.

While tree removal is a last resort, sometimes it becomes necessary. A qualified arborist knows how to remove a tree safely and efficiently, without causing damage to nearby property or harming people. An experienced arborist can tell if a tree can be saved instead of removed, which will save you money and ensure that your trees are properly cared for.

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Tree Trimming Techniques

Tree Trimming is an essential part of regular yard maintenance that enables healthy growth for all types of trees, shrubs, and hedges. It removes the limbs that overgrow and hinder growth, as well as those that hang over buildings or power lines, creating potential hazards on your property. Tree trimming can also improve the appearance of your home’s landscape and enhance its value.

A variety of pruning techniques are available for specific purposes, such as controlling tree size, removing deadwood, or promoting airflow. The most common pruning methods include crown reduction, crown cleaning/deadwooding, crown thinning, and pollarding (or reducing to a single stem).

Crown reduction is a selective cut that reduces the overall height of a mature tree without changing its crown shape. This method is best used on species that naturally grow with a single central leader. It is particularly effective in reducing the weight of heavy branches and promoting new growth. This type of pruning also helps to prevent storm damage.

The first cut is made on the underside of the branch to be removed, just inside the branch collar. This area has a slightly swollen, rougher bark and is the point where a callus will form once the branch is removed. A good rule of thumb is to cut just beyond this point and to avoid leaving a stub that can encourage decay. The second cut is made on the side of the stub where it meets the main branch. This will allow the stub to heal more quickly, as well as to provide support to the remaining branch. The final cut is on the top side of the stub, about an inch further out from the previous cut. This will allow the callus to form at a faster rate and prevent water damage to the bark.

When conducting a crown reduction, you must make three cuts on the branches you are removing to ensure proper healing and to minimize damage to the tree. Make the first cut close to the stub, about 18 inches up the underside of the branch being removed. This will provide a clean cut with little to no damage to the bark. The next cut should be on the top side of the stub, and the last on the outside of the collar. Using a pair of loppers for these cutting is highly recommended as the handles are easy to grip and operate, even by one person.

Thinning the crown involves reducing the density of a mature tree by removing specific branches to increase sunlight penetration and air circulation. It is commonly conducted on shade and fruit trees. When properly performed, thinning is more effective than topping because it doesn’t disrupt the tree’s natural branching habit.

The most important thing to remember when conducting thinning is to keep the number of removals consistent throughout the canopy. Removing too many lower branches can cause the trunk to girdle, which causes permanent scarring of the trunk and inhibits new growth. When thinning a mature tree, it is essential to remove only 10 to 20 percent of the total canopy area.

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How to Keep Your Trees Healthy With a Tree Care Inspection

A healthy tree is a beautiful addition to your property, providing shade and beauty. The best way to keep your trees looking their best is to periodically check them for problems. While it is always best to leave diagnosing diseases and other ailments to an arborist, a quick visual inspection can reveal important information about your tree’s health. Here are a few things to look for:

The Trunk and Bark

The trunk and bark should be smooth, firm and free of loose or peeling areas. There should not be fungi growing on the bark, and there should not be open wounds that invite insects or rot to take up residence.

The Leaves and Needles

Depending on the season, healthy trees will have abundant, vibrant leaves that are of a proper color, shape and size for that time of year. If the leaves are wilting or yellowing, this is an indicator that something is wrong. A fungus like Phytophthora may be attacking the roots, causing them to ooze a dark fluid from the base of the trunk and branches.

New Growth – A healthy tree should put on new growth every year. Look for small twigs growing at the end of branches, and make sure there aren’t any dead branches left over from last year. If there are, this indicates a tree that isn’t receiving enough water and/or nutrients.

Healthy Roots

The roots of your trees are responsible for absorbing the water and nutrients needed for the tree to grow and thrive. Check the soil around your trees for signs of root rot, which may be caused by a fungal infection, or improper planting and/or staking.

There is nothing more dangerous to a tree than having its roots suffocate due to overextension. Overextension can be caused by improper pruning, overwatering and/or poor drainage. A trained tree professional can help correct this problem by determining the final soil elevation of the trunk flare and removing girdling roots.

A reputable tree service should be able to provide you with references and proof of insurance and certification. ISA certification is also an excellent indicator of a company’s commitment to the safe and effective use of tree care methods. A reputable tree service should also be able to provide detailed information about the services they offer and the cost. This will give you a clearer understanding of what your trees need and what to expect from their professional care. A reputable tree service will treat your property with the utmost care and respect. This includes the use of professional grade ropes and tools. The company should also be willing to show you photos of past work and references from other clients.

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The Importance of Tree Maintenance

Trees are a beautiful addition to any landscape, providing beauty and shade that enhance property values and create a healthy environment. They also provide environmental, economic, and health benefits such as reducing energy costs and pollution, improving soil and water quality, providing wildlife habitat, and promoting mental well-being. But trees need to be properly cared for in order to thrive. Whether planted in residential or commercial settings, if not maintained adequately, trees may become damaged, or even die. The good news is that with regular tree maintenance, homeowners can prevent costly issues and protect their properties, homes, and loved ones from the risks of fallen limbs and damage.

Tree maintenance encompasses a variety of services, including pruning, mulching, supplemental planting, staking and guying, root and soil treatments, air spading, and insect and disease control. By performing these services regularly, property owners can extend the life and health of their trees while ensuring safety and creating a more appealing landscape.

Pruning is the selective removal of dead, dying, broken, or weakly attached branches to maintain tree health and vigor and promote plant growth. It is an essential service for a dynamic and cohesive landscape. It removes hazardous branches and limbs, eliminates the risk of property damage or injury, and reduces wind resistance. Pruning also stimulates new growth by enhancing overall sunlight penetration and airflow. Other vital services include crown thinning to reduce density, and crown raising to provide clearance for pedestrians, vehicles, or structures.

Mulching is the practice of covering or spreading organic material around the base of a tree to enhance its appearance and encourage root growth. The amount of mulch needed varies depending on the type of tree, the climate and soil conditions. A professional arborist can help select the right amount of mulch for each situation and implement it correctly to avoid suffocating the roots or damaging the bark.

Soil and root treatments are non-damaging procedures that improve or restore the physical condition of the soil around a tree. This can be done by injecting the soil with water to reduce compaction, by deep aeration and mixing of the topsoil to improve the nutrient supply, or by applying an air tool called an Air Spade that uses high-speed air to move or loosen compacted soil without damaging the roots.

Pest and disease control is another important part of tree maintenance. In addition to preventing unwanted organisms from attacking trees, regular pest control will minimize the need for chemical treatment, which can be harmful to the environment and human beings.

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The Pros and Cons of Tree Lopping

Tree Lopping is a type of pruning that involves cutting away specific branches to control the size and shape of a tree. It’s usually used for a variety of reasons including safety measures, disease management and aesthetic goals. However, it is a controversial topic among arborists as it has been linked to various problems such as increased risk of infection and structural failure.

A common misconception is that tree lopping stimulates growth, but the opposite is true. The tree goes into shock when large sections are lopped and attempts to regrow what was lost which leads to unsustainable fast growth that will require ongoing pruning to maintain the desired height or shape. It also increases stress which is dangerous for the tree and people nearby.

Leaving open wounds in a tree makes it very easy for bacteria, diseases and pest infestations to enter the tree through the lopped portion. This can lead to limb and even whole tree death.

It is important to hire a professional when performing tree lopping. This ensures the right equipment is being used and the job is completed correctly. This is especially important when dealing with tall and difficult to reach trees as improper techniques can result in unwanted accidents. It’s also important to have the right insurance coverage to protect against any damages that may be caused during the course of a job.

Lopping can be a valuable tool for homeowners and business owners alike as it allows them to keep their trees in optimal health. It can help to prevent damage to vehicles, homes and other structures by removing dead or dying branches that pose a threat. Additionally, it can help to reduce the amount of shade that is being cast by the tree and allow more sunlight to reach surrounding areas.

Many homeowners are turning to tree lopping as a way to enhance the aesthetics of their property. This can be done by strategically removing sections of the tree that are overgrown or obstructing views. It can also be used to clear the roof of gutters by removing branches that are hanging too high and could potentially tangle with them or damage the house’s structure.

While there are some positives to tree lopping, it is essential to understand the negatives as well. By examining the benefits and risks, you can determine if this is a procedure that’s right for your needs. Be sure to contact a trusted and experienced tree service provider to perform this task as it requires the use of heavy machinery and can be very dangerous for inexperienced individuals. They will be able to assess your property and recommend the best course of action for you.

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