THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, March 12, 1995 TAG: 9503100106
SECTION: HOME PAGE: G15 EDITION: FINAL
SERIES: WEEDER'S DIGEST
SOURCE: BY ROBERT STIFFLER, GARDENING COLUMNIST
LENGTH: Medium: 51 lines
OVER THE LAST 20 years, there has been an explosion of information in the area of arboriculture and research on literally thousands of plants. This has created a vast databank of information. The certified arborist should be well informed and willing to work toward a healthy interchange with the consumer about goals for an attractive landscape and to preserve the investment.
Good arborists will offer a wide range of services (pruning, fertilizing, cabling-bracing, lightning protection, plant health care, etc.). Smart arborists will recommend topping a tree only under rare circumstances, such as to save the tree after severe damage to the crown or for a specialized decorative effect. Conscientious arborists will not use climbing spikes if the tree is to remain in the landscape.
Before you hire anyone to prune your trees, the International Society of Arboriculture makes these recommendations:
Check in the phone directory under Trees, Tree Service or Tree Care Service. Understand that anyone can list themselves in the Yellow Pages.
Most reputable companies have all the business they can handle without going door-to-door. Door-knockers are especially common after storms when non-professionals see a chance to earn quick money. Storm damage often creates high-risk situations for both workers and homeowners; there is opportunity for more damage to trees and shrubs if work is not done correctly.
Never be rushed by bargains, i.e. ``If you sign an agreement today, I can take 10 percent off the price . . . .'' Never pay in advance.
Ask for other jobs the arborist has done in your area. Look at some and, if possible, talk with the former client. Experience, education and a good reputation are signs of a good arborist.
Determine if the arborist is a member of any professional organizations. Membership does not guarantee quality, but lack of membership casts doubt on the person's professionalism.
Determine if the arborist complies with the requirements of The International Society of Arboriculture, which offers a national certification program.
Have more than one arborist give you estimates. Don't expect one to lower a bid to match another, and be willing to pay for the estimate. Two or more opinions and estimates are worth your effort.
Beware of an arborist who is eager to remove a living tree. Removal should be a last resort. by CNB