Liriope's Muse: What is an arborist, why should I hire one, and what are their qualifications? Everything you should know about an arborist before hiring one.

If you're considering hiring an arborist to care for your trees, you should know what they do, why they do it, and their qualifications. In this blog, we'll cover important things you should know about arborists, how to choose the right arborist, and other interesting information you may not have known.

What is an ISA Certified Arborist?

An ISA Certified Arborist is a skilled professional in the tree care industry who specializes in the cultivation, management, and maintenance of trees. They possess extensive knowledge about various tree species, their growth patterns, diseases, and the best techniques for their care.

Arborists play a crucial role in ensuring the health and vitality of trees in both urban and natural environments. From planting and pruning to diagnosing and treating tree diseases, arborists are the go-to experts for anything related to trees. They use a variety of tools and techniques to assess tree health, improve tree structure, and provide solutions for tree-related issues.

Why should I hire an ISA Certified Arborist?

Hiring an arborist offers numerous benefits when it comes to the care and management of your trees. Firstly, arborists are highly trained and knowledgeable professionals who understand the complexities of trees and their unique needs. They can identify issues that may go unnoticed by the untrained eye and provide appropriate solutions, whether it's pruning, disease treatment, or tree removal.

Arborists also prioritize tree health and safety, so they will ensure that your trees are properly cared for and not posing any risks to your property or loved ones. Additionally, they have the proper equipment and experience to handle tree work efficiently and safely, minimizing any potential damage or accidents. By hiring an arborist, you can be confident that your trees are in good hands and will thrive for years to come.

How can I tell the difference between an arborist and a half-price Harry landscaper?

The biggest and most notable difference lies in their professional experience and safety awareness. Landscapers specialize in the upkeep and visual design of lawns, gardens, patios, and other outdoor areas. Most are not equipped with the training and the tools needed to perform arboriculture operations safely, or even correctly. On the contrary, certified arborists are highly trained and experienced in working with dangerous equipment, and educated to ISA, TCIA, and ANSI safety and tree care standards. With the most reputable companies having workman's compensation insurance, protecting the company and the homeowners from any property damages, and having a professional company that is incorporated shows the arborist's commitment to the field of arboriculture.

That being said if your lawn is in need of a little TLC, a landscaper is surely the guy to call, but if your trees or shrubs are looking unhealthy or dangerous, it is time to call a certified arborist!

So what qualifies someone to be an ISA Certified Arborist?

Becoming an ISA Certified Arborist is no easy feat, it takes loads of hours both in school and in the field. To first qualify for the exam, you must have at least 3 years of experience in the field and it is preferred that you hold a degree in Horticulture, Forestry, or another relevant field.

The International Society of Arboriculture says, When you become an ISA Certified Arborist, you are recognized by your peers and the public as a tree care professional who has attained a generally-accepted level of knowledge in areas such as tree biology, diagnosis, maintenance practices, safety, and other subject and practice areas within the tree care profession. To earn such a credential, you must be trained and knowledgeable in all aspects of arboriculture. ISA Certified Arborists must also adhere to the Code of Ethics that strengthens the credibility and reliability of the workforce. (ISA.com)

What's better than an ISA Certified Arborist?

A Board-Certified Master Arborist of course! A BCMA certification is the highest arboricultural cerification that one can receive. It is the pinnacle of one's career, comparable to a doctorate and only about 2% of all arborists hold this title.

According to Wiki, the Master Arborist or Board Certified Master Arborist credential identifies professional arborists who have attained the highest level of arboriculture offered by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). There are several paths to the Board Certified Master Arborist, but typically on average each has been an ISA Certified Arborist for a minimum of 5 years before qualifying for the exam (this can vary depending upon other education and experience). This prestigious certification began as a result of the need to distinguish the top few arborists and allow others to identify those with superior credentials.

The Master Arborist examination is a far more extensive exam than the International Society of Arboriculture Certified Arborist Exam and covers a broad scope of arboriculture management, science, and work practices.

Eric Putnam BCMA, Inc. is here for you and your trees!

Eric Putnam is a second-generation tree guy that was raised respecting, caring for, and treating trees. As a Board Certified Master Arborist with the International Society of Arboriculture and decades of experience in the tree industry, Eric has dedicated his life’s work to helping homeowners understand their trees’ needs and ensure they get the best tree care available. Our customers trust in our expertise and understand our priority will always be to ensure their trees get the best care possible—no unnecessary upselling or gimmicks. What makes Eric Putnam BCMA Inc. stand out from other tree care services is our genuine care for the health of the trees we attend to and our attention to safety.



So, whether you need advice on tree selection, guidance on proper pruning techniques, or assistance in dealing with tree pests, an Isa Certified Arborist is your reliable and friendly resource in the wonderful world of trees. So, next time you need assistance with your trees, don't hesitate to call upon the skills of a local certified arborist!

Resources I've found helpful during my research:



Percision Tree - Whats The Difference Between A Landscaper And An Arborist

Mayer Tree - All About Arborists The Top 10 Things You Need To Know

Wikipedia - Master Arborist

ISA - Types Of Credentials ISA Certified Arborist

ISA - Types Of Credentials ISA Board Certified Master Arborist