Are you looking for an arborist but don’t know where to start? These top tips will ensure you find and hire a first-rate arborist to care for your trees.
What exactly is an arborist?
Arborists are tree specialists. They are expertly trained in tree pruning, fertilizing, rigging, felling and uprooting. They also know how to diagnose and treat various diseases. That's whywhatever your tree maintenance needs, it’s strongly recommended to hire a recognized and certified professional.
The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA)
The ISA is an American organization whose mission is to bring together arborists from around the world. There are branches of the ISA in almost every region of Canada. It's a good place to start your search for a skilled specialist to care for your trees.
Visit the ISA website fora list of members and their contact information.
Arborists with ISA certification must have a minimum of three years experience or training. To be affiliated, they must pass an exam administered by the ISA, adhere to the ISA code of ethics, and commit to continued training and education throughout their career. In short, they know their stuff.
Nurseries, garden centres and landscapers
You might find an arborist in a garden centre or a nursery, but they are usually more specialized in sales than maintenance.
While some landscaping companies provide arboriculture services, beware of companies that are too generalized. Businesses performing all sorts of landscaping jobs may lack the specialization and expertise required for certain trees maintenance projects.
Your best course of action is to find a company specializing in the specific service you are looking for: trimming, pruning, treating diseases and more.
The professional qualities of a good arborist
To help you know if a professional is competent and worth hiring:
- They have certification and recognized credentials.
- They are members of an arborist association, such as the ISA.
- They have liability insurance.
- They have good references.
- They will provide you with a written quote.
- They don’t use spikes or pickaxes to climb trees.
- Instead of “topping” trees, they maintain the tree's natural shape when trimming and pruning.
How much will it cost?
Fees vary according to the services rendered. For example, felling a large tree and removing the stump can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Meanwhile, regular tree maintenance services are usually provided at a rate of about $150 per hour.
Rates can also be influenced by the region and location you live in: cutting down a tree in the city will be more expensive if the tree and property are difficult to access.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a devoted professional whose top priority is respecting trees and the environment. Don't be influenced by bargain basement prices. Also, don’t fall for big promises if the person making them can’t back it up with experience and professional quality work.
