What Exactly Does an Arborist Do?

An arborist, also known as a tree surgeon, is a professional trained in the care, maintenance, and management of trees. Their expertise goes beyond basic gardening or landscaping, focusing specifically on ensuring tree health, safety, and proper development.


Core Responsibilities of an Arborist

  1. Tree Pruning and Trimming
    Arborists prune trees to maintain their structure, encourage healthy growth, and remove dead or hazardous branches. Proper trimming can prevent damage from storms and enhance a tree’s aesthetic value.
  2. Tree Removal
    When trees become a safety hazard—due to disease, structural instability, or proximity to structures—arborists may recommend and safely perform tree removal. They also handle stump grinding to prevent re-growth.
  3. Planting and Transplanting
    Arborists select the right tree species for specific environments, ensuring they thrive with minimal risk of disease or improper growth. They also manage transplanting of large trees, ensuring minimal stress to the plants.
  4. Tree Health Assessments
    Arborists perform diagnostic inspections to identify pests, diseases, or nutrient deficiencies. They recommend treatments like fertilization, pest control, or soil management to improve tree health.
  5. Emergency Services
    After storms or accidents, arborists provide emergency tree care, such as clearing fallen branches or stabilizing damaged trees to prevent further harm.
  6. Risk Assessments and Reports
    For safety purposes, arborists assess the risk posed by large or aging trees near homes, power lines, or public areas. They also generate reports for construction projects or legal purposes, ensuring trees comply with local regulations.

Why Hire an Arborist?

Arborists bring specialized knowledge and skills, often certified by organizations like the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Their expertise ensures that trees remain healthy and landscapes stay safe. Hiring a certified arborist can prevent costly damage, promote long-term tree health, and maintain the ecological benefits trees provide.

With their combination of scientific knowledge and hands-on techniques, arborists play a vital role in managing both residential and urban green spaces