Tree Service FAQs

Your questions answered

Common Questions

Trust your tree care to an ISA Certified Arborist. Professional arborists are familiar with different tree species and understand their growth habit, defects, etc. Each tree is unique and must be pruned accordingly. ISA Certified Arborists are experienced professionals who have years of experience and have passed an extensive examination covering all aspects of tree care. They must stay up to date on the latest techniques and information through continuing education to keep their certification.

Tip:
Confirm you are working with a professional. Ask to see ISA certification, proof of insurance and licensing.

Topping is an unacceptable pruning practice. A responsible ISA Certified Arborist will never top a tree for several reasons. Topping stresses trees, leads to decay and leads to an unacceptable risk by causing future weak limbs. Topping may also lead to the death of a tree. There are alternatives to topping if a tree must be reduced in height or spread. Visit www.treesaregood.org for more information regarding topping.

Pruning must be done with an understanding of tree biology because improper cuts can create lasting damage or shorten a tree’s life. Proper cuts are a priority when trimming any tree, but even more so with mature trees. Younger trees tolerate a heavier pruning than older trees. Generally, no more than 25% of the crown should be removed at once and less for mature trees. It is important to minimize large pruning wounds. In most cases, the pruning objective for mature trees is for corrective or preventative measures by crown cleaning, thinning or raising.

Trees offer tremendous value to our homes, but they can also become dangerous. If you are concerned about your tree, contact Pam. She is an ISA Risk Assessment qualified arborist that can analyze your tree and help determine a corrective course of action if needed.