What To Look for When Evaluating Your Property With an Arborist

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Scheduling a property evaluation with an arborist gives you access to professional insights into tree and shrub care. Arborists provide comprehensive assessments of the overall health and risks of the trees and shrubs surrounding your home. They identify signs of pests, diseases, structural problems, and soil issues. Here are a few things to look for when evaluating your property with an arborist:

Tree Health and Safety

An arborist may evaluate tree health and vitality by assessing vigor, canopy density, leaf size, and stem growth. If the trees have signs of discoloration or insect damage, arborists can determine suitable solutions. They also address fungal growth and other signs of disease or pest infestation. Evaluations may involve examining the tree trunks for cracks, decay, hollow areas, and other damage.

Arborists check for co-dominant stems that could split or break as the tree grows, increasing the risk of structural failure. Other evaluations include inspecting the root collar for fungi, decay, and girdling roots. Roots that grow too close to your foundation or driveway may need to be removed to prevent future damage. Arborists assess all trees and shrubs for instability and possible fall hazards. Based on the findings, they may recommend pruning, cabling, or removal to address any risks.

Hazards and Structural Problems

Trees and shrubs are vulnerable to pests and diseases that can damage the plants and lead to loss. Some branches and trunks die, lean, and grow over structures, resulting in various problems. Broken or dying branches could fall on your roof, causing costly damage. Leaning trees may also fall during storms. An arborist helps identify these issues and develops solutions to prevent damage to your structures.

After checking for pest and disease problems, the arborist can schedule early treatment to prevent tree loss. Signs of pest infestation include discolored leaves, insect droppings, unusual bark patterns, and dieback of affected areas. Shrub and tree care professionals also examine leaves and soil for signs of borers and scale insects. They identify and treat bacterial and viral infections, as well as provide preventative care to protect your trees from wilt and root rot.

Soil and Growing Conditions

Reviewing soil conditions and root health reveals potential nutrient deficiencies. An arborist may test soil samples for compaction, drainage, pH imbalance, and nutrient composition. If the soil lacks sufficient nutrients, the arborist can suggest a deep-root fertilization program to deliver the necessary nutrients.

Tree and shrub care professionals also assess growing conditions, such as sunlight, water, and spacing. They provide growth regulators or improve soil structure by adding mulch and aerating compacted areas. Some arborists can offer recommendations for watering schedules and soil amendments to promote growth or recover balding lawns.

Tree and Shrub Care

Partnering with an arborist enables you to care for your trees and shrubs properly. An arborist offers professional insight into all aspects of tree care, from placement during new planting to managing future growth. Their experience allows them to anticipate how different species will grow and what they need to thrive. If a tree is likely to develop roots that could affect your foundation, the arborist may suggest planting it farther away to prevent future issues.

Tree and shrub care professionals also offer growth regulators to slow the development of a plant once it has reached a suitable stage. This treatment can help keep branches clear of power lines for a longer period. The arborist identifies problems such as competition for light, water, and nutrients, addressing them early to protect both your trees and your property. They may also thin areas with overcrowded growth if needed.

Work With Experienced Arborists

Partnering with an arborist gives you access to full-service tree and shrub care. An experienced arborist can provide injections or dormant oil to keep pests and diseases away. They also help control deer and rabbits using organic repellents. Contact a certified arborist today to learn more about their services.