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What is a certified arborist? What do arborists do?

Joe Cassilly, the owner of Tree Masters Tree Service, is a certified arborist operating in the North Tampa area. What does “arborist” actually mean? What do arborists do? And how can having an arborist on call benefit landowners? That’s what we’re here to talk about today.

Trees are often the most beautiful part of any landscape. More importantly, they are necessary for our very survival. Trees produce oxygen and shade, cool city streets, prevent soil erosion, and generously provide food to many woodland creatures. Nonetheless, they are often taken for granted.

Certified Arborists are passionate about all trees and dedicate their lives to these incredible, magnanimous beings.

What is an arborist?

A Certified Arborist is a highly trained professional who specializes in the maintenance, planting, caring, and diagnosis of woody plants and shrubs.

In the U.S., a Certified Arborist is also known as a Tree Surgeon and must have three years of applied experience. In addition to the documented, hands-on experience, arborists must pass rigorous testing and a written exam from the International Society of Arboriculture.

This verified testing ultimately ensures that an Arborist has mastered their trade and can efficiently oversee the development and growth of trees.

There are varying degrees in the field, including Utility Specialist, Municipal Specialist, and Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA).

Some colleges in the U.S. offer training, and if the course is successfully completed, the degree may be accepted to partially offset the needed experience to gain the title of Certified Arborist.

What Do Arborists Do?

Arborists are deeply invested and educated in all things involving the science, art, structure, and function of trees. Their expertise encompasses cultivation, growth, diseases, pruning, decay, and all things related to tree surgery.

Arborists’ interest goes beyond just trees. They are also well versed in the maintenance of vines, shrubs, and all woody plants.

Arborists are trained to have a holistic approach to maintaining the health of the entire tree, much like a general practitioner or family doctor.

Arborists may be called upon to assess damages sustained in wind storms or infestations, or to diagnose potential diseases. They will recommend the proper protocols for treatment and how to maintain the ongoing health of your tree or shrub.

Their expertise is invaluable in ensuring the proper measures for pruning, trimming, fertilization, disease control, seasonal tree care, and drought mitigation.

A true professional Arborist continues their education, and is always studying, and learning the latest technology and techniques of the arboriculture trade. This ongoing education is a requirement for arborists to maintain certification.

Arborists fully understand the value and benefit of these magnificent plants and the intrinsic value they add to any property. They will help oversee the proper technique for planting and will ascertain the perfect location for your future towering beauty.

What services are offered by certified Arborists?

Tree Planting

If you are looking to increase the value of your property and enhance the “curb appeal,” it’s wise to consult an arborist. They can tell you the right trees for your specific needs, be it shade, privacy, and determine the safest locations. Arborists can also advise which trees are the right choice for your region, and offer tips on maintenance during the development and growth of your tree.

Tree Pruning

Proper pruning is an absolute must in maintaining the integrity and health of your precious tree, and Arborists have specific, non-invasive techniques to ensure the best outcome for your beloved tree. A Certified Arborist can assess and advise the best way to proceed if your tree is diseased or sustains storm damage and if the tree poses a safety threat.

Tree Care and Maintenance

Maintenance and proper on-going care are of the utmost importance for the health and esthetics of your trees. A Certified Arborist offers great insight into preventative care, and if your tree is sick, may assist in expediting the healing.

Tree Removal and Stump Removal

Most tree removal companies will cut down a tree without properly assessing the damage. A Certified Arborist will diligently examine every possibility for saving the tree, and will only remove it as an absolute last resort

You’ve got a certified arborist on your team.

Contracting the services of a certified arborist is an investment in your home’s equity. Properly cared-for trees and shrubs can add tremendous value to a property. Discover what your local Tampa area arborist can do for property owners in the North Tampa area. Give Joe a call today at (813) 404-0944 or email Joe here.