If you’re like most modern homeowners, you value and appreciate the beauty and grace that your trees add to your outdoor living space. You probably also depend on your trees for shade on warm summer afternoons, protection from the wind, and in some cases, even fruit or nuts for the family table. Naturally, you want your trees to have the best care possible to keep them looking and performing their best, and this means hiring a professional arborist service rather than a non-specialist. Here are just four of the many advantages of hiring a certified arborist for your tree trimming needs.

1- In-Depth Knowledge of Tree Biology

Certified arborists have comprehensive training in the science of tree care. Their deep understanding of tree biology includes the way that different species respond to trimming, pruning, and other basics of tree care maintenance. This knowledge is essential for ensuring that proper procedures are followed so that the tree isn’t damaged during the trimming process.

Professional arborists are also skilled in identifying signs of pest and/or pathogen infestations that otherwise might go unnoticed by an untrained eye. The sooner these issues are addressed, the less harm they’re likely to cause, saving a tree from potential decline and death.

2- Safety First

Tree trimming, particularly in the case of large or older trees, can be a hazardous activity. However, certified arborists are trained in risk assessment and have the ability to safely manage potentially dangerous circumstances. Certified arborists typically have access to the right tools for specific jobs and are trained in how to use these tools, which minimizes the risk of on-the-job accidents. This is particularly important in the case of catastrophic events such as wind or ice storms that weaken and damage tree limbs to the extent that they pose a serious safety risk.

3- Aesthetics and Structural Integrity

Regular trimming by a trained arborist can help maintain the overall structural integrity of your trees. They can identify and remove weak, diseased, and dead branches before they become a safety hazard, as well as shape them to enhance the tree’s natural form and beauty. If you’re lucky enough to have fruit trees in your yard, your professional arborist will know what time of year to prune these trees for the best results when it comes to producing fruit.

4- Long-Term Savings and Value

Costly mistakes such as overtrimming or otherwise damaging the tree can lead to homeowners having to shoulder the burden of expensive corrective measures — and in some cases, tree removal. A certified arborist will do the job right the first time, helping to ensure that you save money in the long run.

Mature, well-cared-for trees also add to the overall value of your property, adding curb appeal, privacy, and significant aesthetic beauty to the picture.

Don’t make the mistake of waiting until your tree has been damaged to schedule an appointment with your local certified arborist — your tree care program should be an ongoing partnership that focuses on preventive maintenance.