| Frequently Asked Questions |  |
What is an Arborist?
An Arborist is a person who, through education and professional experience, is qualified in all aspects of landscape plant care and maintenance. States and associations also certify qualified individuals who meet specified criteria.
Why can't my tree be topped?
Topping is considered unprofessional work. In fact, Standards for tree care published by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), specifically prohibit topping. Topping promotes decay and produces rapid growth of "watersprouts" (limbs that are weakly attached). It decreases the tree's ability to produce energy (photosynthesis) due to leaf reduction, weakening its vigor and starving the tree.
What is wrong with my tree? What do you recommend? Does it need Pruning/Pest Management/Fertilization/Removal?
Sometimes tree care is a multiple-choice answer - the diagnosis may not be obvious. An Arborist will identify the problem area(s), recommend a program of treatment and perform the procedure(s) necessary.
How often and how much should I water my trees?
Newly planted trees and shrubs should be watered approximately twice each week when no rain occurs. Be sure to direct irrigation water on the root ball where most of the live roots are located. Most established plants should be irrigated thoroughly once a week during the growing season when no rain occurs.
When is the best time of the year to prune?
Light pruning, which is generally all that should be needed in proactive tree management programs, can be done at any time of the year. If major pruning is needed to compensate for structural defects or other reasons, winter is an ideal time because leaves don't obscure the crown structure. It also depends on the species.
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