Finding affordable tree services in Dunwoody, GA doesn't have to mean sacrificing quality. While the lowest bid might be tempting, cutting corners on tree care can lead to bigger problems and expenses down the road. Think of it like this: you wouldn't choose the cheapest surgeon, would you? Tree work, especially large removals or pruning near power lines, requires skill, specialized equipment, and insurance – all of which cost money. So, how do you find a balance between affordability and quality? Vetting is key.
Start by getting multiple quotes. Don't just focus on the bottom line. Look at what each quote includes. Does it specify the scope of work, including cleanup and debris removal? A vague quote can hide hidden costs. Next, check for licensing and insurance. A legitimate tree service will be fully insured to protect you and your property from accidents. Ask for proof of both. Don't be shy about asking for references. Talking to previous customers can give you valuable insights into a company's reliability, professionalism, and the quality of their work. Online reviews are helpful too, but remember to take them with a grain of salt.
Don't underestimate the importance of a site visit. A reputable arborist will come to your property to assess the trees and provide a tailored quote. This allows them to accurately evaluate the job and identify any potential challenges. Use this opportunity to ask questions. A knowledgeable arborist will be happy to discuss your trees' specific needs and explain their recommendations. Pay attention to their communication style. Are they clear, concise, and willing to listen to your concerns? Finally, trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
Finding affordable tree service in Dunwoody requires a little homework, but the peace of mind that comes with knowing your trees are in capable hands is worth the effort. Don't let the allure of a cheap price blind you to the potential risks. Remember, when it comes to tree care, quality shouldn't be a branch you're willing to cut.
Finding affordable tree services in Dunwoody, GA can feel like navigating a jungle itself. While you're focused on getting the best price, it's easy to overlook hidden costs that can inflate your final bill and leave you with an unwelcome surprise. So, before you hire the first company with the lowest quote, take a deep breath and consider these potential budget busters.
One common hidden cost is the "extra" fees for debris removal. Some companies might quote you a price for trimming or removal, but then tack on an additional charge for hauling away the branches, leaves, and wood. Make sure you clarify upfront whether debris removal is included in the initial quote or if it's an added expense. Similarly, stump grinding or removal is often a separate service. If you want the stump gone, don't assume it's part of the tree removal cost. Get a specific price for this service before work begins.
Another potential surprise is the cost of dealing with difficult-to-access trees. If your tree is located near power lines, buildings, or other obstacles, it might require specialized equipment or extra manpower. This can translate into higher labor costs. Be upfront about any potential access issues when getting quotes, so you can get an accurate estimate.
Emergency tree services, naturally, come at a premium. If a storm knocks down a tree and you need immediate removal, expect to pay more than you would for routine service. While it's impossible to predict every emergency, having a trusted tree service professional you've worked with before can often help smooth the process and potentially mitigate some of the emergency upcharges.
Finally, be wary of companies that give extremely low quotes. While everyone loves a bargain, a significantly lower price than other reputable companies might be a red flag. It could indicate they're cutting corners, lack proper insurance, or plan to add on hidden fees later. Do your research, read reviews, and choose a company with a proven track record of quality work and transparent pricing. By being aware of these potential hidden costs, you can avoid budget surprises and ensure your tree service experience in Dunwoody is a positive one.
What Is Stump Grinding? Stump grinding involves using a special machine to grind the stump down into small wood chips. The grinder has a rotating blade that grinds the stump into pieces until it is several inches below the ground level. The goal is to make the stump less visible and easier to deal with, without completely removing it from the soil. Advantages of Stump Grinding: Faster Process: Stump grinding is quicker than stump removal. The entire process usually takes a few hours, depending on the size of the stump. Less Mess: The machine produces wood chips, which can be used as mulch for your yard. There's no large hole left behind, so the process is cleaner. Cost-Effective: Stump grinding typically costs less than stump removal because it requires less labor and equipment. Minimal Lawn Disturbance: Since the stump is ground down to below the surface, it has little impact on the surrounding lawn or garden. Disadvantages of Stump Grinding: Root System Remains: While the stump is removed, the roots remain in the ground. Over time, these roots can decay and potentially cause problems for new plants or future construction projects. Shallow Removal: Stump grinding does not fully eliminate the stump. If you need to plant a new tree in the same location, the leftover roots could interfere with growth. Potential for Regrowth: In some cases, the leftover roots can sprout new shoots, leading to regrowth of the tree.
Stump grinding involves using a special machine to grind the stump down into small wood chips. The grinder has a rotating blade that grinds the stump into pieces until it is several inches below the ground level. The goal is to make the stump less visible and easier to deal with, without completely removing it from the soil.
Stump removal, on the other hand, involves completely removing the stump and the root system. This process typically requires digging around the stump to expose the roots, then cutting and pulling the roots out of the ground. This method leaves a large hole in the ground where the stump once was.
The choice between stump grinding and stump removal depends on your needs and preferences.
Stump grinding is a faster, less invasive option that works well for most homeowners who don’t mind leaving the roots behind. It's perfect for clearing a small area where you want to plant or use the space for something else. Stump removal, while more expensive and disruptive, provides a clean slate, ensuring that the stump and its roots are completely gone.
1. Maintaining Soil Moisture One of the most significant benefits of mulching is its ability to retain moisture in the soil. Trees need a consistent amount of water to thrive, and mulch helps to keep the soil underneath it moist. Without mulch, water evaporates quickly, especially during hot, dry conditions. By placing a layer of mulch around the base of your tree, you reduce the amount of water loss and ensure that your tree gets the moisture it needs. This is particularly important in regions with periods of drought or dry seasons. 2. Weed Control Weeds compete with trees for resources such as water, nutrients, and sunlight. By placing mulch around a tree, you create a barrier that makes it harder for weeds to grow. The mulch prevents weeds from sprouting by blocking sunlight and covering the soil. As a result, your tree can focus on growing and developing without the stress of competing for essential resources. Regularly mulching helps maintain a cleaner, healthier environment around your tree, reducing the need for chemical weed control. 3. Maintaining Stable Soil Temperature Mulch helps to regulate the temperature of the soil, creating a more stable environment for tree roots. During hot weather, mulch acts as a protective blanket, preventing the soil from overheating. In colder months, it helps to insulate the soil, protecting the roots from freezing temperatures. This temperature regulation is vital for the health of trees, especially in regions that experience extreme temperature fluctuations. 4. Soil Enrichment Organic mulch, such as wood chips or bark, breaks down over time and adds valuable nutrients to the soil. As the mulch decomposes, it releases organic matter that improves the soil structure and increases its fertility. This provides essential nutrients to the tree, encouraging stronger root development and overall growth. The organic matter in the mulch also helps to improve soil drainage, preventing the soil from becoming compacted and allowing water to flow more easily to the roots. 5. Promoting Healthy Tree Growth Mulching promotes the growth of your tree by providing a more favorable environment for root development. Healthy roots are crucial for the tree’s overall health, and mulch supports this by keeping the soil moist, temperature-stable, and nutrient-rich. A well-mulched tree is more likely to grow stronger and healthier, which reduces the risk of disease and stress. This, in turn, leads to a more vibrant and long-lasting tree. 6. Prevention of Soil Erosion Mulch can help prevent soil erosion around the base of a tree. Erosion can occur when rain or wind washes away the soil, exposing tree roots and damaging the structure of the ground around the tree. Mulch acts as a protective cover that keeps the soil intact, reducing the chances of erosion. This is especially important for newly planted trees, as it ensures that their roots stay secure and well-nourished. 7. Pest Control Mulch can also help deter pests that might harm your tree. Certain types of mulch, such as cedar or cypress, have natural insect-repelling properties that can reduce the number of harmful pests around the tree. Additionally, mulch can provide a barrier that makes it more difficult for pests to reach the tree’s roots. While mulch will not eliminate pests entirely, it can reduce their impact on tree health. 8. Improving the Appearance of Your Yard Besides its practical benefits, mulch also enhances the appearance of your landscape. A fresh layer of mulch around your trees adds a clean, tidy look to your yard. It can be used to complement the colors of flowers, shrubs, or the tree itself, creating a more attractive and polished appearance. A well-mulched tree can also help define borders and add structure to your garden. 9. How to Mulch Properly To get the most out of mulching, it is important to apply it correctly. The best time to mulch is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are moderate. When mulching around trees, use a layer of 2 to 4 inches of mulch. Be sure not to pile mulch directly against the tree trunk, as this can create a damp environment that promotes rot and disease. Instead, spread the mulch evenly around the tree, extending it outward to the tree’s drip line (the area where the tree’s branches reach the ground). It is also important to use the right type of mulch. Organic mulches, such as wood chips, bark, or straw, work best for trees. These materials decompose over time, providing long-lasting benefits to the soil. Avoid using inorganic mulches, like rocks or gravel, as they do not provide the same benefits.
One of the most significant benefits of mulching is its ability to retain moisture in the soil. Trees need a consistent amount of water to thrive, and mulch helps to keep the soil underneath it moist. Without mulch, water evaporates quickly, especially during hot, dry conditions. By placing a layer of mulch around the base of your tree, you reduce the amount of water loss and ensure that your tree gets the moisture it needs. This is particularly important in regions with periods of drought or dry seasons.
Weeds compete with trees for resources such as water, nutrients, and sunlight. By placing mulch around a tree, you create a barrier that makes it harder for weeds to grow. The mulch prevents weeds from sprouting by blocking sunlight and covering the soil. As a result, your tree can focus on growing and developing without the stress of competing for essential resources. Regularly mulching helps maintain a cleaner, healthier environment around your tree, reducing the need for chemical weed control.
Mulch helps to regulate the temperature of the soil, creating a more stable environment for tree roots. During hot weather, mulch acts as a protective blanket, preventing the soil from overheating. In colder months, it helps to insulate the soil, protecting the roots from freezing temperatures. This temperature regulation is vital for the health of trees, especially in regions that experience extreme temperature fluctuations.
Organic mulch, such as wood chips or bark, breaks down over time and adds valuable nutrients to the soil. As the mulch decomposes, it releases organic matter that improves the soil structure and increases its fertility. This provides essential nutrients to the tree, encouraging stronger root development and overall growth. The organic matter in the mulch also helps to improve soil drainage, preventing the soil from becoming compacted and allowing water to flow more easily to the roots.
Mulching promotes the growth of your tree by providing a more favorable environment for root development. Healthy roots are crucial for the tree’s overall health, and mulch supports this by keeping the soil moist, temperature-stable, and nutrient-rich. A well-mulched tree is more likely to grow stronger and healthier, which reduces the risk of disease and stress. This, in turn, leads to a more vibrant and long-lasting tree.
Mulch can help prevent soil erosion around the base of a tree. Erosion can occur when rain or wind washes away the soil, exposing tree roots and damaging the structure of the ground around the tree. Mulch acts as a protective cover that keeps the soil intact, reducing the chances of erosion. This is especially important for newly planted trees, as it ensures that their roots stay secure and well-nourished.
Mulch can also help deter pests that might harm your tree. Certain types of mulch, such as cedar or cypress, have natural insect-repelling properties that can reduce the number of harmful pests around the tree. Additionally, mulch can provide a barrier that makes it more difficult for pests to reach the tree’s roots. While mulch will not eliminate pests entirely, it can reduce their impact on tree health.
Besides its practical benefits, mulch also enhances the appearance of your landscape. A fresh layer of mulch around your trees adds a clean, tidy look to your yard. It can be used to complement the colors of flowers, shrubs, or the tree itself, creating a more attractive and polished appearance. A well-mulched tree can also help define borders and add structure to your garden.
To get the most out of mulching, it is important to apply it correctly. The best time to mulch is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are moderate. When mulching around trees, use a layer of 2 to 4 inches of mulch. Be sure not to pile mulch directly against the tree trunk, as this can create a damp environment that promotes rot and disease. Instead, spread the mulch evenly around the tree, extending it outward to the tree’s drip line (the area where the tree’s branches reach the ground).
It is also important to use the right type of mulch. Organic mulches, such as wood chips, bark, or straw, work best for trees. These materials decompose over time, providing long-lasting benefits to the soil. Avoid using inorganic mulches, like rocks or gravel, as they do not provide the same benefits.
When searching for a cheap tree service, it's tempting to focus solely on price.. However, rock-bottom quotes can sometimes indicate a lack of proper insurance and licensing.
Posted by on 2025-04-03
So, you're looking for a cheap tree service.. Totally understandable – tree work can be expensive.
Long-term tree care isn't just about keeping your yard looking nice; it's a smart investment that can save you a bundle down the road.. Think of it like regular car maintenance – a little preventative care prevents major (and expensive) repairs later.
So, you've got a looming tree issue in Dunwoody, GA, and your wallet's feeling a little light. You're probably wrestling with that age-old dilemma: DIY or hire a cheap tree service? Let's be honest, tackling trees yourself can seem tempting. Chainsaw rentals are readily available, YouTube is brimming with "how-to" videos, and you might even enjoy a bit of outdoor exertion. But before you go full lumberjack, consider the risks.
Tree work is inherently dangerous. We're talking heavy branches, potential power line encounters, and the risk of serious injury if things go south. Do you have the right safety equipment? Are you truly confident in your skills? A miscalculated cut can send a limb crashing down on your property, your car, or even worse, you. Insurance companies are notoriously picky about DIY tree work incidents, and medical bills can wipe out any perceived savings faster than you can say "timber!"
Now, let's talk about "cheap" tree services. While finding affordable tree care in Dunwoody is entirely possible, "cheap" often translates to "cutting corners." A bargain-basement service might lack proper insurance, employ inexperienced workers, or utilize unsafe practices. They might also leave you with a hefty cleanup bill or even damage your property. Imagine your beautiful azaleas crushed under a carelessly felled branch, or your lawn torn up by heavy equipment. Suddenly, that "cheap" service isn't looking so appealing.
The sweet spot lies in finding a reasonably priced and reputable tree service. Look for companies with local experience, verifiable insurance, and positive reviews. Ask for quotes from several companies, and don't be afraid to inquire about their safety practices and certifications. A slightly higher price upfront can save you a mountain of trouble (and expense) down the road. Remember, when it comes to trees, safety and expertise are worth investing in. Your property, and your well-being, will thank you for it.
Finding affordable tree services in Dunwoody, GA doesn't mean sacrificing quality. It means taking a proactive approach to tree care, which ultimately leads to long-term savings. Think of it like investing wisely: a small upfront cost now can prevent major expenses down the line.
Regular tree maintenance, like pruning and inspections, might seem like an added expense, but it's actually a preventative measure. Just like regular oil changes for your car, these services keep your trees healthy and strong, reducing the risk of disease, pest infestations, and structural damage. Addressing these issues early, when they're small and manageable, is significantly cheaper than dealing with a large, hazardous tree that requires emergency removal.
Imagine a scenario: you skip pruning for a few years. A branch, weakened by disease, falls on your roof during a storm. Suddenly, you're facing expensive repairs, potentially even replacement costs. That one-time pruning service would have been a fraction of the price. This is where long-term savings come into play. Proactive tree care is an investment in the health and longevity of your trees, and ultimately, the protection of your property and wallet.
So, while searching for "affordable tree services Dunwoody GA" might lead you to companies offering the lowest prices, consider the long-term implications. Look for certified arborists who can provide expert advice and preventative care. Ask about their approach to tree health and maintenance. A slightly higher upfront cost for quality service can save you significant money in the long run, ensuring your trees remain healthy, beautiful, and safe for years to come.
Pruning is a horticultural, arboricultural, and silvicultural practice involving the selective removal of certain parts of a plant, such as branches, buds, or roots.
The practice entails the targeted removal of diseased, damaged, dead, non-productive, structurally unsound, or otherwise unwanted plant material from crop and landscape plants. In general, the smaller the branch that is cut, the easier it is for a woody plant to compartmentalize the wound and thus limit the potential for pathogen intrusion and decay. It is therefore preferable to make any necessary formative structural pruning cuts to young plants, rather than removing large, poorly placed branches from mature plants.
Woody plants may undergo a process referred to as "self-pruning", where they will drop twigs or branches which are no longer producing more energy than they require. It is theorized that this process can also occur in response to lack of water, in order to reduce the surface area where water can be lost.[1] This natural shedding of branches is called cladoptosis.
Specialized pruning practices may be applied to certain plants, such as roses, fruit trees, and grapevines. Different pruning techniques may be used on herbaceous plants than those used on perennial woody plants.
Reasons to prune plants include deadwood removal, shaping (by controlling or redirecting growth), improving or sustaining health, reducing risk from falling branches, preparing nursery specimens for transplanting, and both harvesting and increasing the yield or quality of flowers and fruits.
Branch wood is an individual stem that grows off of another stem.
Trunk wood is the main stem of a tree which individual stems grow out of.
This refers to the area below the union of where branch wood attaches with the trunk/stem wood. This can often appear raised.
This refers to the junction between branch wood and trunk/stem wood. It usually looks raised. [2]
Pruning in an urban setting is crucial due to the tree being in drastically different conditions than where it naturally grows.[3]
Arborists, orchardists, and gardeners use various garden tools and tree cutting tools designed for the purpose, such as secateurs, loppers, handsaws, or chainsaws.[4] Additionally in forestry, pole pruners (averruncators in British English) and pole saws are commonly used, and these are often attached to poles that reach up to 5–6 m (16–20 ft). This is a more efficient and safer way of pruning than with ladders. These bush saws on polls have also been motorized as chainsaws which is even more efficient. Older technology used Billhooks, Kaiser blades, and pruning knives. Although still used in some coppicing, they are not used so much in commercial forestry due to the difficulty of cutting flush with the stem. Flush cuts happen when a pruner cuts into the cambium layer of the main trunk, which can happen when a pruner is not precise with pruning cuts, and removes a portion of the branch collar, which can put the tree at risk of entry cords from forest pathogens.
Although there are several different types of pruning, they can be simplified into two categories. One of which is cutting the branch back to a specific and intermediate point, called a "reduction cut", and the other of which is completely removing a branch back to the union where the branch connects which the main trunk, called "removal cut".[5]
A "reduction cut" is when one removes a portion of a growing stem down to a set of desirable buds or side-branching stems. This is commonly performed in well trained plants for a variety of reasons, for example to stimulate growth of flowers, fruit or branches, as a preventive measure to wind and snow damage on long stems and branches, and finally to encourage growth of the stems in a desirable direction.
In orchards, fruit trees are often lopped to encourage regrowth and to maintain a smaller tree for ease of picking fruit. The pruning regime in orchards is more planned, and the productivity of each tree is an important factor.
Branches die off for a number of reasons including sunlight deficiency, pest and disease damage, and root structure damage. A dead branch will at some point decay back to the parent stem and fall off. This is normally a slow process but can be hastened by high winds or extreme temperatures. The main reason deadwooding is performed is safety. Situations that usually demand removal of deadwood include trees that overhang public roads, houses, public areas, power lines, telephone cables and gardens. Trees located in wooded areas are usually assessed as lower risk but assessments consider the number of visitors. Trees adjacent to footpaths and access roads are often considered for deadwood removal.[8]
Another reason for deadwooding is amenity value, i.e. a tree with a large amount of deadwood throughout the crown will look more aesthetically pleasing with the deadwood removed. The physical practice of deadwooding can be carried out most of the year though should be avoided when the tree is coming into leaf. The deadwooding process speeds up the tree's natural abscission process. It also reduces unwanted weight and wind resistance and can help overall balance.
Preventative and structural pruning can be done to mitigate several issues young trees may have in the future. The structural pruning can reduce tree stress, increase the lifespan of trees, and promotes resistance to damage due to natural weather events. Attributes of trees with good structure include excurrent growth by having a single dominant leader, branch unions without included bark, and a balanced canopy. Structural pruning does this by developing or maintaining a dominant leader, identify the lowest branches in the canopy, prevent branches below the permanent canopy from growing too large, keeping all branches less than one half the trunk diameter, space main branches along one dominant trunk, and suppress growth on branches with included bark. [9]
Subordination pruning is done on limbs that will exceed 50% percent of the stem diameter. A reduction cut may be performed while still allowing about 50% of the branch. This is done to help maintain form and deter the formation of co-dominant leaders. Temporary branches may be too large for a removal cut so subordination pruning should be done to slowly reduce a limb by 50% each year to allow the tree to properly heal from the cut. As a tree becomes larger the slower it grows. Reducing the larger limbs for eventual removal will allow for the tree to promote new growth rather than using energy in encouraging unwanted limbs to continue to grow. Removing a large branch increases the likelihood of the cut to not heal properly which also may attract insects, diseases and fungus. [9][10]
Crown thinning is the removal of live healthy branches which increases light penetration, air circulation and reduces wind resistance which reduces risks from damage and the possibility of pest infestation. [11]
Crown raising involves the removal of the lower branches to a given height. The height is achieved by the removal of whole branches or removing the parts of branches which extend below the desired height. The branches are normally not lifted to more than one third of the tree's total height.
Crown lifting is done for access; these being pedestrian, vehicle or space for buildings and street furniture. Lifting the crown will allow traffic and pedestrians to pass underneath safely. This pruning technique is usually used in the urban environment as it is for public safety and aesthetics rather than tree form and timber value.
Crown lifting introduces light to the lower part of the trunk; this, in some species can encourage epicormic growth from dormant buds. To reduce this sometimes smaller branches are left on the lower part of the trunk. Excessive removal of the lower branches can displace the canopy weight, this will make the tree top heavy, therefore adding stress to the tree. When a branch is removed from the trunk, it creates a large wound. This wound is susceptible to disease and decay, and could lead to reduced trunk stability. Therefore, much time and consideration must be taken when choosing the height the crown is to be lifted to.
This would be an inappropriate operation if the tree species’ form was of a shrubby nature. This would therefore remove most of the foliage and would also largely unbalance the tree. This procedure should not be carried out if the tree is in decline, poor health or dead, dying or dangerous (DDD) as the operation will remove some of the photosynthetic area the tree uses. This will increase the decline rate of the tree and could lead to death.
If the tree is of great importance to an area or town, (i.e. veteran or ancient) then an alternative solution to crown lifting would be to move the target or object so it is not in range. For example, diverting a footpath around a tree's drip line so the crown lift is not needed. Another solution would be to prop up or cable-brace the low hanging branch. This is a non-invasive solution which in some situations may be more economical and environmentally friendly. [12]
Selectively pruning a window of view in a tree.
Reducing the height and or spread of a tree by selectively cutting back to smaller branches and in fruit trees for increasing of light interception and enhancing fruit quality.
A regular form of pruning where certain deciduous species are pruned back to pollard heads every year in the dormant period. This practice is usually commenced on juvenile trees so they can adapt to the harshness of the practice. This practice can be used for tree shaping but is also used in specific species which young branches can be sold for floral arrangements.
Deadheading is the act of removing spent flowers or flowerheads for aesthetics, to prolong bloom for up to several weeks or promote rebloom, or to prevent seeding.
In general, pruning deadwood and small branches can be done at any time of year. Depending on the species, many temperate plants can be pruned either during dormancy in winter, or, for species where winter frost can harm a recently pruned plant, after flowering is completed. In the temperate areas of the northern hemisphere autumn pruning should be avoided, as the spores of disease and decay fungi are abundant at this time of year.
Some woody plants tend to bleed profusely from cuts, such as mesquite and maple. Some callus over slowly, such as magnolia. In this case, they are better pruned during active growth when they can more readily heal. Woody plants that flower early in the season, on spurs that form on wood that has matured the year before, such as apples, should be pruned right after flowering as later pruning will sacrifice flowers the following season. Forsythia, azaleas and lilacs all fall into this category.
Tree care is the application of arboricultural methods like pruning, trimming, and felling/thinning[1] in built environments. Road verge, greenways, backyard and park woody vegetation are at the center of attention for the tree care industry. Landscape architecture and urban forestry[2][3] also set high demands on professional tree care. High safety standards against the dangers of tree care have helped the industry evolve. Especially felling in space-limited environments poses significant risks: the vicinity of power or telephone lines, insufficient protective gear (against falling dead wood, chainsaw wounds, etc.) and narrow felling zones with endangered nearby buildings, parking cars, etc.. The required equipment and experience usually transcends private means and is often considered too costly as a permanent part of the public infrastructure. In singular cases, traditional tools like handsaws may suffice, but large-scale tree care usually calls for heavy machinery like cranes, bucket trucks, harvesters, and woodchippers.
Road side trees are especially prone to abiotic stress by exhaust fumes, toxic road debris, soil compaction, and drought which makes them susceptible to fungal infections and various plant pests[4] like the spotted lantern fly.[5] When tree removal is not an option, because of road ecology considerations, the main challenge is to achieve road safety (visibility of road signs, blockage-free lanes, etc.) while maintaining tree health.
While the perceived risk of death by falling trees (a part of the "tree risk" complex) is influenced by media and often hyped (the objective risk has been reported to be close to 1 : 10.000.000, almost as low as death by lightning),[6] singular events have encouraged a "proactive" stance so that even lightly damaged trees are likely to be removed in urban and public traffic surroundings.[3] As a tree ages and nears the end of its safe useful life expectancy (SULE),[7] its perceived amenity value is decreased greatly. A risk assessment normally carried out by local council's arborist to determine the best course of action.[8][9] As with all public green spaces, trees in green urban spaces and their careful conservation is sometimes in conflict with aggressive urban development even though it is often understood how urban trees contribute to liveability of suburbs and cities both objectively (reduction of urban heat island effect, etc.) and subjectively.[10][11][12][13] Tree planting programs implemented by a growing number of cities, local councils and organizations is mitigating the losses and in most cases increasing the number of trees in suburbia.[14] Programs include the planting of 2 trees for every 1 tree removed, while some councils are paying land owners to keep trees instead of removing them for farming or construction.[15]
The voluntary industry consensus standards developed by TCIA, resulted in the ANSI A300 standard, the generally accepted industry standard for tree care practices including trees, shrubs, and other woody plants.[16] It includes the following parts:
Urban Forestry maintains 4.1 million trees on public property, which includes an estimated 3.5 million trees within Toronto's parks and ravines, and approximately 600,000 trees on City streets. ... The focus of our maintenance service is shifting progressively from reactive maintenance to proactive maintenance.
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Ho Chi Minh City has announced a plan to move and cut down 300 trees on Ton Duc Thang Street in District 1 to make space for a bridge connecting to District 2 and a metro station.
Arboriculture (/ˈɑËÂÂrbÉ™rɪˌkÊŒltʃər, É‘ËÂÂrˈbÉâ€ÂËÂÂr-/)[1] is the cultivation, management, and study of individual trees, shrubs, vines, and other perennial woody plants. The science of arboriculture studies how these plants grow and respond to cultural practices and to their environment. The practice of arboriculture includes cultural techniques such as selection, planting, training, fertilization, pest and pathogen control, pruning, shaping, and removal.
A person who practices or studies arboriculture can be termed an arborist or an arboriculturist. A tree surgeon is more typically someone who is trained in the physical maintenance and manipulation of trees and therefore more a part of the arboriculture process rather than an arborist. Risk management, legal issues, and aesthetic considerations have come to play prominent roles in the practice of arboriculture. Businesses often need to hire arboriculturists to complete "tree hazard surveys" and generally manage the trees on-site to fulfill occupational safety and health obligations.[citation needed]
Arboriculture is primarily focused on individual woody plants and trees maintained for permanent landscape and amenity purposes, usually in gardens, parks or other populated settings, by arborists, for the enjoyment, protection, and benefit of people.[citation needed]
Arboricultural matters are also considered to be within the practice of urban forestry yet the clear and separate divisions are not distinct or discreet.[citation needed]
Tree benefits are the economic, ecological, social and aesthetic use, function purpose, or services of a tree (or group of trees), in its situational context in the landscape.
A tree defect is any feature, condition, or deformity of a tree that indicates weak structure or instability that could contribute to tree failure.
Common types of tree defects:
Codominant stems: two or more stems that grow upward from a single point of origin and compete with one another.
Included bark: bark is incorporated in the joint between two limbs, creating a weak attachment
Dead, diseased, or broken branches:
Cracks
Cavity and hollows: sunken or open areas wherein a tree has suffered injury followed by decay. Further indications include: fungal fruiting structures, insect or animal nests.
Lean: a lean of more than 40% from vertical presents a risk of tree failure
Taper: change in diameter over the length of trunks branches and roots
Epicormic branches (water sprouts in canopy or suckers from root system): often grow in response to major damage or excessive pruning
Roots:
Proper tree installation ensures the long-term viability of the tree and reduces the risk of tree failure.
Quality nursery stock must be used. There must be no visible damage or sign of disease. Ideally the tree should have good crown structure. A healthy root ball should not have circling roots and new fibrous roots should be present at the soil perimeter. Girdling or circling roots should be pruned out. Excess soil above the root flare should be removed immediately, since it presents a risk of disease ingress into the trunk.
Appropriate time of year to plant: generally fall or early spring in temperate regions of the northern hemisphere.
Planting hole: the planting hole should be 3 times the width of the root ball. The hole should be dug deep enough that when the root ball is placed on the substrate, the root flare is 3–5cm above the surrounding soil grade. If soil is left against the trunk, it may lead to bark, cambium and wood decay. Angular sides to the planting hole will encourage roots to grow radially from the trunk, rather than circling the planting hole. In urban settings, soil preparation may include the use of:
Tree wells: a zone of mulch can be installed around the tree trunk to: limit root zone competition (from turf or weeds), reduce soil compaction, improve soil structure, conserve moisture, and keep lawn equipment at a distance. No more than 5–10cm of mulch should be used to avoid suffocating the roots. Mulch must be kept approximately 20cm from the trunk to avoid burying the root flare. With city trees additional tree well preparation includes:
Tree grates/grill and frames: limit compaction on root zone and mechanical damage to roots and trunk
Root barriers: forces roots to grow down under surface asphalt/concrete/pavers to limit infrastructure damage from roots
Staking: newly planted, immature trees should be staked for one growing season to allow for the root system to establish. Staking for longer than one season should only be considered in situations where the root system has failed to establish sufficient structural support. Guy wires can be used for larger, newly planted trees. Care must be used to avoid stem girdling from the support system ties.
Irrigation: irrigation infrastructure may be installed to ensure a regular water supply throughout the lifetime of the tree. Wicking beds are an underground reservoir from which water is wicked into soil. Watering bags may be temporarily installed around tree stakes to provide water until the root system becomes established. Permeable paving allows for water infiltration in paved urban settings, such as parks and walkways.
Within the United Kingdom trees are considered as a material consideration within the town planning system and may be conserved as amenity landscape[2] features.
The role of the Arborist or Local Government Arboricultural Officer is likely to have a great effect on such matters. Identification of trees of high quality which may have extensive longevity is a key element in the preservation of trees.
Urban and rural trees may benefit from statutory protection under the Town and Country Planning[3] system. Such protection can result in the conservation and improvement of the urban forest as well as rural settlements.
Historically the profession divides into the operational and professional areas. These might be further subdivided into the private and public sectors. The profession is broadly considered as having one trade body known as the Arboricultural Association, although the Institute of Chartered Foresters offers a route for professional recognition and chartered arboriculturist status.
The qualifications associated with the industry range from vocational to Doctorate. Arboriculture is a comparatively young industry.