10 Situations When You Should Call An Arborist
Trees are hugely important for people and for the planet. They provide a multitude of environmental, social and economic benefits and that’s why they need proper care and attention from trained arborists.
What is an arborist?
Think of an arborist as a tree doctor. They examine the condition of trees, diagnose problems and provide solutions. These include appropriate treatment, care, nutrition and maintenance programmes to ensure a tree’s optimum health and also the pruning of trees to promote healthy growth. They are able to stabilise and secure the branches or trunk of weaker or potentially unsafe trees and remove severely compromised ones or those which pose a risk to people or property.
An arborist is concerned about the health of a tree, but they also play an important role in its aesthetics. They are trained in ‘sculpting’ trees, removing bulk and branches so that the tree remains strong and healthy.
Who uses an arborist?
From homeowners wanting advice on a single tree in their garden to councils needing comprehensive assessments on the health and safety of trees in public areas, near powerlines and other infrastructure, anyone can consult an arborist and get professional, qualified advice on all types of trees in all types of locations.
To give you a better idea of what arborists are qualified to do, here’s a list of 10 situations when you should call a tree expert.
- When the tree in question is tall and/or large. Arborists have the appropriate training, equipment and experience to access trees of any size safely, without risk to people or property.
- When a tree looks ‘sick’. You may notice physical changes in your tree such as drooping, wizened or discoloured leaves, unusual peeling of bark or unseasonal dropping of foliage. These can be signs of decay or disease and an arborist will be able to diagnose the problem and suggest a course of action.
- When you want the trees on your property assessed. Whether you have a backyard with a single specimen or a large property with groves of trees, an arborist is the person to call when you want a comprehensive assessment on their health and sustainability.
- When overhanging branches are impacting your property (eg a wall, driveway, a space where children play etc). An arborist will be able to safely remove any potentially hazardous branches while maintaining the tree’s aesthetics, balance and overall health.
- When you want a tree removed. An arborist will safely remove a tree that is severely damaged, is overcrowded with other trees or which poses a hazard.
- When you want a tree pruned. An arborist will lop or prune the tree the correct way to maintain its structure and balance. Each cut needs to be made properly in order to encourage new growth in the right direction and to avoid creating any easy entry points for disease or pests.
- When you want a tree ‘downsized’. An arborist will use the correct procedures to reduce the height, width and bulk of a tree.
- When you have messy palm trees. If you don’t use the proper techniques when pruning or trimming a palm tree, you risk killing it. Palms also have to be pruned at a certain time of year to prevent unnecessary damage. An arborist has the appropriate equipment and know-how to get the job done safely and effectively.
- When you want a tree stump removed. An arborist uses specialised tools and equipment to remove stumps and roots.
- When you need advice on what type of tree to plant. An arborist will make recommendations on tree types according to your location (including climate, soil type, slope etc) and your preferences (evergreen, deciduous, native, exotic, screening, shading etc). Getting expert advice upfront will ensure you plant the right tree for your specific circumstances and could save you money and heartache down the line.
If any of the above situations apply to you, you are welcome to get in touch with the friendly team at Dickie’s Trees on 9249 4077, send us an email at admin@dickiestrees.com.au or contact us here. We are professionally trained tree surgeons and arborists in Perth with over 40 years’ experience, and we welcome the opportunity to discuss your tree needs and provide you with an obligation-free quote.
Cameron Dickie is the Managing Director of Dickies Tree Service, a family-owned arboriculture and tree services company based in Perth, Western Australia.
With more than 23 years of industry experience, Cameron has progressed from groundsperson to Managing Director, developing hands-on expertise across tree removal, pruning, vegetation management, risk assessment and emergency response works.
Under his leadership, Dickies Tree Service has grown into one of Perth’s most established and trusted tree service providers, delivering works for government agencies, local councils, universities, commercial organisations and residential clients across the Perth metropolitan area. Cameron is passionate about responsible tree management and best-practice arboriculture, with a strong focus on safety, compliance and long-term tree health outcomes.
