Case Study: An Arborist evaluation finds signs of root disturbance and damage to the left side of red oak. The cause? A driveway that doesn’t exist. Using site clues most others wouldn’t have noticed, our arborist pieced together the history of this tree and was able to give the homeowner some answers. Find out how our arborist solved this mystery!
What is an Arborist?
Simply put, arborists are tree doctors. They can diagnose what is wrong with trees and shrubs and then recommend treatment and solutions. Many arborists have decades of field experience – they are the true authority on all tree-related needs!
Arborists are skilled in a variety of areas; they must have a vast knowledge of plant and pest ID, have a sharp attention to detail, and must be great problem solvers! An arborist never knows what tree-related mystery they will need to solve. Often they must piece together context clues and analyze the plant’s condition to accurately determine the source of the problem.
What Does an Arborist Do?
The main function of an arborist is to diagnose and prescribe – just like a regular doctor, only their patients are trees and not people! There are two main types of arborists: consulting arborists and practicing/working arborists (you can learn more about their differences here). Additionally, there are different levels of arborist certifications, and arborists may choose to specialize in specific industries. At RTEC, all of our arborists are ISA-certified arborists. This means they have all gone through a course to demonstrate their masterful knowledge of plant-related problems, as well as how to treat them. Being certified means committing to staying up to date with the latest field information and training techniques. When a certified arborist is on your property you can be at ease knowing you are getting the best possible care!
Types of services arborists can prescribe:
- Pruning
- Tree removal
- Risk Assessments
- Planting
- Advising
- Plant health care
- Emergency work
- Stump removal
What are Some of the Top Concerns that Arborists Address in the DC area?
In dense city areas such as DC, the needs and problems in plant care are drastically different from the issues that are common in more rural areas. In a tight city, people rarely have lawns or even yards, so their needs tend to focus on individual high-value trees. Most folks have one tree that is dear and near to them, so ensuring that the tree stays healthy and aesthetically kept year round is important! Whether your tree is experiencing pests (borers, aphids, scale) or just needs a boost against urban stressors (such as compact ground and pollution), our expert team will deliver exactly what it needs! In tight communities, pests and diseases can spread easily from one yard to another. By protecting your tree, you’re helping protect the community’s trees! You can check out more of our services here.
Home Gardens Versus Commercial Landscaping
Arborists are beneficial for small or large scale projects! Whether you need advice on one tree or one hundred trees, these experts can handle it. When it comes to home gardens, we specialize in lawn care, shrub maintenance, and overall property health. On the other hand, we also handle big projects such as historic creek restorations and treating the county’s ash trees for emerald ash borers!
What an Arborist Can Do for You
The role of an arborist cannot be understated. Their trained eyes, past experience, and use of clues from the site allow them to make sound recommendations to the trees on the property.
In the case study we mentioned earlier, an Arlington resident’s red oak showed signs of distress. The arborist evaluated the site but didn’t see any evidence of pests or pathogens. The arborist then noticed a curb cutout that indicated the presence of a driveway in the past.
Upon further investigation, and thanks to satellite imagery, the arborist was able to confirm her hunch that 19 years ago there was, in fact, a driveway. While the driveway has since been removed, the red oak remains – but for how long? When construction and land disturbance like this is conducted in such close proximity to the tree’s critical root zone, there is potential for permanent damage to the tree.
When to Call an Arborist
An arborist is necessary in order for you to keep your trees healthy and thriving! Having healthy plants not only increases your property value, but can also boost your happiness! If you suspect that any of your plants are sick, or if you want to help minimize their risk of getting sick, then call your local arborist to develop a treatment program!
Some communities require tree preservation for things like construction projects. Be sure to check in with your local municipality to learn what they require.
Our certified arborists can create a customized protection plan that best fits your tree’s needs. Even when closely and carefully monitored, it is almost impossible to anticipate your tree’s needs. While we cannot reverse trees’ decline, we can help them thrive while they are around.
Talk to a Certified Arborist Today to Create a Healthier Home Garden or Commercial Landscape
Are you planning a construction or renovation project that might affect your tree? Call us today to protect these trees before it’s too late!
