Guide Lines for proper tree care.



Most people in search of tree care dont know the right questions to ask when searching for a tree care company.

They know little or nothing about tree care. The following is a list of information the home owner should know when

trying to hire a company. This information is intended for Texas residents but much of the information may be

applicable in other states.



Most arborists are not tree doctors. Most arborists make over 90% of their living cutting,

pruning and taking trees down. Hire someone who makes 90% of their living doing tree care on a daily basis.



Most arborists are not licensed and know little about trees.



Certified arborists are generally people who belong to one of the national arborist associations.

This doesnt mean that they understand about tree care.



The State of Texas does not Certify Arborists.



The State of Texas does offer certain categories which grant a business license to perform work on trees. The

holder of any license means that company meet the minimal standards of the state to receive a license.

Testing criteria is generally pretty lax in the area of tree care. These categories have very little to do with tree care.

It is more of a money making opportunity for the state. The more companies they issue licenses , the more revenue

for the state.



Tree spraying will do very little to help a tree with sever problems. The average chemical sprayed on a tree will

help for only about 10 days. Tree spraying should only be used for control measures when the problem is minor.

Major infestations of insects or fungus will generally require multiple spraying on a regular basis. Other treatment

options may be necessary on sever problems.



Fertilizing trees should be done once a year. Ninety percent of most companies under fertilize

By 400%. Proper vigor is essential in maintaining the health of a tree.



The average arborist has less than two weeks of classroom training. Home owners have very little chance of getting

proper tree care done by one of these individuals.



Beware of cheap prices when hiring a tree care company. If it is to cheap there is probably something wrong.

Many chemicals cost upwards of several hundred dollars just for a gallon. Trees often are very large requiring

many gallons of chemicals. Treating a tree for what it may cost to spray shrubs is a dead give away that something

may be wrong.



A good tree doctor can always demonstrate his knowledge. Listen carefully and make sure the recommended

solution makes sense. If you dont understand ask for a more detailed explanation. Simple explanations that

dont make sense are an indication of a lack of knowledge. Good tree care will come from a knowledgeable

tree doctor. Remember arborists are not tree doctors. Most arborists make most of their living cutting, pruning, and

removing trees.



Most trees have multiple problems. The home owner has a much better chance of a successful outcome, if the

tree doctor can diagnose many diseases and insect problems. If the tree doctor cant demonstrate this ability

hire some one else. Good tree care is hard to find.



Most companies offer cutting, pruning and removal but almost none concentrate on tree care services.

