Advice from an Arborist: Who Should I Hire?
When it comes to tree care, many homeowners aren’t sure whether they need a tree service or an arborist service. While both involve tree work, there are significant differences in expertise, training, and the services they provide. Understanding these differences can help you make the best decision for your trees and property.
What is the Purpose of an Arborist?
An arborist is a trained professional specializing in the health and longevity of trees. Unlike general tree service companies, arborists are often certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and follow science-backed methods to ensure trees thrive in urban and residential environments.
What Does an Arborist Do?
- Diagnoses and treats tree diseases and pest infestations
- Provides proper pruning and proper tree trimming to encourage growth and structural integrity
- Assesses tree safety and identifies hazards before they become a problem
- Offers guidance on tree planting and species selection
- Helps preserve trees during construction projects
If you’re looking for an arborist service that focuses on the long-term health of your trees, rather than just cutting them down, an ISA-certified arborist is the right choice.
How Much Do Arborists Charge?
The cost of hiring an arborist service varies based on factors such as tree size, location, and the specific work needed. Here’s a general breakdown of common arborist costs:
- Tree Health Consultation: $75 – $250 (free to Wildwood customers!)
- Tree Pruning: $250 – $1,500 (depending on size and complexity)
- Tree Removal: $300 – $5,000+ (based on height, condition, and accessibility)
- Stump Grinding: $75 – $500
While arborist services may cost more than a typical tree service, they ensure your trees remain healthy, safe, and well-maintained in the long run. If you’re considering an arborist service, it’s worth getting multiple estimates and ensuring the company is ISA-certified.
Is Hiring an Arborist Worth It?
If you care about the health and safety of your trees, hiring an arborist is absolutely worth it. Unlike standard tree services, arborists don’t just remove trees—they focus on preserving them whenever possible.
Why Homeowners Choose Arborists Over Tree Services:
✔ Prevention Saves Money: Catching disease or damage early can prevent costly removals.
✔ Better Property Value: Well-maintained trees add curb appeal and increase property value.
✔ Safer Pruning Techniques: Arborists follow ANSI A300 pruning standards to avoid improper cuts that weaken trees.
✔ Long-Term Tree Health: They help trees grow stronger, live longer, and resist pests and disease.
If you’re dealing with a diseased or aging tree, an arborist service can assess whether it can be saved before opting for removal.
When Should You Call an Arborist?
Not sure whether you need local arborist service or a standard tree service? Here are some common situations where calling an arborist is the right move:
- A tree looks unhealthy (discolored leaves, dead branches, or fungal growth).
- You suspect a pest infestation (boring insects, excessive sap, or chewed leaves).
- A tree is leaning dangerously or has cracked limbs.
- You want to plant new trees and need advice on the best species and placement.
- You need a tree risk assessment before a storm season.
- Your tree was recently damaged in a storm, and you’re unsure if it can be saved.
A tree service may be able to trim or remove a tree, but an arborist service ensures the work is done with tree health in mind.
What is the Difference Between a Tree Service and an Arborist?
A tree service focuses on cutting, trimming, and removing trees, while an arborist service provides specialized tree care and long-term health solutions.
| Service Type | Tree Service | Arborist Service |
|---|---|---|
| Tree Removal | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (if necessary) |
| Trimming & Pruning | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (following proper techniques) |
| Tree Health Diagnosis | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Disease & Pest Management | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Tree Preservation & Planting Advice | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Certified by ISA | ❌ Not Always | ✅ Yes |
If you’re simply looking to have a tree cut down, a tree service may be enough. But if you want professional tree care and health management, an arborist service is the better choice.
Why Choose Wildwood Tree Care?
At Wildwood Tree Care, we offer both expert arborist services and skilled tree care. Our certified arborists ensure trees are cared for properly, and when removal is necessary, we do it safely and efficiently. We are proudly local and serve Boise, Meridian, Nampa, and surrounding areas, providing top-quality tree health solutions and safe removal services.
Need Tree Care? Contact Us Today!
Whether you need an arborist’s expertise or professional tree removal, Wildwood Tree Care has you covered. Call us today for an expert tree assessment and ensure your trees remain strong and healthy for years to come!
Phone: 208-243-9191