The Difference Between an Arborist and a Gardener
A lot of Australians don’t know the difference between a qualified Arborist and a gardener. Whilst it’s true that there is some common ground, there are also some huge differences, especially when it comes to trees and even some large shrubs. The difference this makes to you is huge in terms of quality of service and knowledge that the right solution is being implemented for your situation. A lot of gardeners might have a “can do” attitude but arborists are well trained and expert in all forms of tree care. As well as that, that there is specialist machinery and skills, health and safety, as well as knowing local government regulations.
What Arborists Do
Most arborists offer a great many services and will be experienced in the common issues in their local environment (dealing with what trees are common in that area etc). Tree services are not only restricted to removal (lopping, grinding and pruning etc), but also health, planting and regular care.
Treating diseases alone is an enormous topic and skill which requires in-depth knowledge of fungus, insects and other health hazards as well as dealing with chemicals to treat the affected tree.
Here is an outline of what a qualified arborists skills look like:
- Expert tree knowledge of all kinds
- Tree health and well being
- Tree health and safety
- Specialised equipment
- Safety certificates
- Correct solution
Issues With Not Hiring a Qualified Arborist
- Incorrect Pruning and Trimming Methods
- Lack of Appropriate Tools
- Unaware of Health and Safety Risks
- Lack of Tree Health Knowledge
- Unaware of Local Govt Rules
- Lack of Appropriate Insurance
- Won’t Find Best Solution for the Problem
Reputable gardeners will not normally take on a job they can’t do or aren’t qualified for, but some may. Most will refer you to qualified arborists like ourselves who have been serving the Townsville area for over 22 years.
Issues With Not Hiring a Qualified Arborist
Ideally, all tree removal should be carried out by arborists, especially if they are big, near other hazards, and require stump grinding. Anything to do with tree health is also a reason to use an expert arborist as the wrong treatment can severely harm or kill your tree. Even tree lopping or pruning is a qualified job as you need to know how and where on the plant itself, and also when. When trees have an impact on safety (like leaning, growing towards power lines or buildings, or when their roots impact drains and sewers or foundations, then arborists are always called (especially by the govt or businesses). Here are some examples of when you should call an arborist:
- Tree removal, lopping and stump grinding
- Trees growing too close to buildings or structures
- Rotting or sick trees with infections or fungus
- Tree roots causing structural damage to buildings and drains
- Tree maintenance for future growth regarding other trees & plants
