Uncovering the Truth About Arborists: Do They Really Know Best?

Janice Seril • October 5, 2023

To most people, an arborist is just another tradie. But what sets an arborist from the rest? Do they really know what's best for our trees?

An arborist wearing a hardhat with face guard, green shirt, and orange armguard is smiling while holding a chainsaw.

Arborists. They're the experts when it comes to tree care. They're the ones you call when you've got a pesky tree branch that's just begging to come crashing down on your car, or when you want to make sure your beloved lemon tree stays healthy and fruitful for years to come.


But did you know that there are some folks out there who think that arborists are overrated? They argue that you can just prune your trees yourself or hire a general handyman to do it for you and save yourself some serious coin in the process.


But is that really the case? Do arborists really know best when it comes to tree care, or are they just ripping us off? That's what we're here to uncover today, so let's dive into the wild and wacky world of arboriculture.

So, What Does an Arborist Do?

If you've got a tree problem, chances are an arborist can help you out. These guys (and gals!) are the tree whisperers, the ones who know all there is to know about tree care. So, what exactly do they do?


Pruning:
Arborists are experts at pruning trees, which involves selectively removing certain branches to improve the tree's structure, health, and appearance. They can also remove dead or diseased branches that could be a hazard.


Shaping: Arborists can shape trees to fit a specific aesthetic or to keep them from growing into power lines or other structures. They can also help guide young trees into a healthy growth pattern.


Removing: When a tree needs to come down, an arborist can make sure it's done safely and efficiently. They'll also make sure the stump is removed or ground down properly.

The Importance of an Arborist's Expertise

Arborists aren't just tree trimmers - they're tree experts. They have a deep understanding of tree biology, horticulture, and care techniques, which allows them to keep trees healthy and thriving for years to come.


For example, arborists can identify diseases and pests that could be affecting your trees, and take steps to prevent them from spreading. They also know how to prune trees in a way that encourages healthy growth and minimizes the risk of future problems.


So, when you hire an arborist, you're not just getting someone to trim your trees. You're getting a partner who will help you care for your trees and keep them healthy for years to come.

Equipment and Certifications

Arborists use a wide range of equipment to get the job done, from simple hand pruners to massive wood chippers. Some of the most common tools you'll see them use include chainsaws, ropes and pulleys, and climbing harnesses.


But it's not just about having the right gear - arborists also need to be properly trained and certified. Look for an arborist who has been certified by a reputable organization like the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). These certifications ensure that the arborist has the knowledge and skills needed to do the job safely and effectively.

Criticisms Around Arborist Expertise

Despite their knowledge, skills, and expertise about tree care and maintenance, some people still criticize arborists for being too expensive or having a negative environmental impact. Let's take a look at the two of top criticisms arborists get and why they may not be entirely accurate.


Cost: Yes, working with an arborist can be more expensive than doing the work yourself. However, consider the cost of not doing the work properly - if your tree falls on your house or car, you're looking at a much bigger bill.


Environmental impact: While it's true that cutting down trees can have a negative impact on the environment, arborists work to minimize this impact as much as possible. They'll only remove trees when it's necessary, and will often recommend other solutions (like pruning or cabling) to address problems instead.

Despite these benefits, some people still criticize arborists for being too expensive or having a negative environmental impact. Let's take a look at some of these criticisms and why they may not be entirely accurate.


Cost: Yes, working with an arborist can be more expensive than doing the work yourself. However, consider the cost of not doing the work properly - if your tree falls on your house or car, you're looking at a much bigger bill.


Environmental impact: While it's true that cutting down trees can have a negative impact on the environment, arborists work to minimize this impact as much as possible. They'll only remove trees when it's necessary, and will often recommend other solutions (like pruning or cabling) to address problems instead.

The Value of Hiring an Arborist

Two arborists standing behind a woodchipper.

If you're still on the fence about whether to hire an arborist, let's take a look at some of the benefits you can expect.


Increased Safety


When it comes to tree care, safety should always be your top priority. An arborist can help you assess the risks posed by your trees, and take steps to mitigate those risks. This can include pruning branches that are too close to power lines, removing dead or diseased trees, or installing support systems to help prevent tree failure.


Better Tree Health


Trees are a major investment in your property, and you want to make sure they stay healthy and thriving for years to come. An arborist can help you do just that by identifying any issues early on and taking steps to address them. This can include pruning for better air circulation, treating pests or diseases, and fertilizing to promote growth.


Increased Property Value


Hiring an arborist can actually increase the value of your property. Trees are a major selling point for many buyers, and a well-maintained, healthy tree can make your property stand out. Plus, if you're planning on selling in the future, having a professional arborist come in and assess your trees can give you a leg up in negotiations.

House with beautiful lawn and well-maintained trees.

Final Thoughts

While there may be some controversy around the expertise of arborists, the evidence shows that they truly do know best when it comes to tree care. By hiring an arborist, you are making an investment in the health and safety of your trees and the value of your property. So why wait? Call Arborist Sunshine Coast at 07 5451 8756  today to see how they can help you keep your trees in top shape.

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