Trees are great (I am biased). They define our neighborhoods, our homes and perhaps a fond memory or two. (One of the first girls I kissed happened under a tree by the school yard.)
But when you are looking for a tree service provider how do you know what you're getting is good service? Or, the right service for you and your tree? Well, you don't.
Tree service is a hard thing for the tree owner (You) to quantify. Yes, there is a standardized way to prune and care for trees, (see ANSI). But many times you may get mixed messages. For example:
One "arborist" may say the tree has bark beetle and to remove the tree. One may say there is no sign of bark beetle, but there is leaf disease....
Another "arborist" recommends thinning for wind sail reduction and another says limit any thinning of the tree. Fertilize your tree...don't need to fertilize your tree...etc, etc. ( By the way, your trees don't need pruning or fertilization very often. Save yourself some money. Less is more.)
What to do?
There are professional organizations that promote tree research and education. The ISA is one. They also offer a voluntary examination to become a certain level of Certified Arborist.
This exam implies that the person with this credential has a level of knowledge such that he/she won't sell you a bill of goods or turn your Oak into a coat rack.
Does the Certified Arborist credential save you from unscrupulous or poorly educated "arborist" in the tree service industry? Nope.
But it does suggest an intent of the tree service provider to follow scientific standards and professional ethics.
Credentials do have merit, but they can't save you from the hack.
(FYI, As a Board Certified Master Arborist, I signed a code of ethics with the ISA as did many other professional arborists. Yes, I am bragging a bit. )
Who do you trust?
Trust is key. In everything.
Tree care is buying something intangible. (Indeed, from the sales side, it is also like selling something invisible.)
Get a referral ask around. Use Angie's List or some other referral site. (They will want your money....who doesn't. I'm not plugging any of them, it's just a good idea. But you will find me there.)
Starting with the ISA or the TCIA is a good place to begin.
The state will have records of tree service companies that have a blemished record or claims against them. Go to CCB for that.
If I have thoroughly confused you, that's not my intent.
But you're smart (that's why you are looking for tree care in the first place). Do your homework.
Or give me a call. If I don't have the answer, I know somebody who does.
I just want you to have the best for your trees and property. You work hard enough to have the best.
Until next time,
Matt
