What is the Difference Between an Arborist and a Tree Surgeon | Understanding the Differences Between an Arborist and a Tree Surgeon
If you need a professional to perform tree care work, it’s useful to be able to understand exactly who can help you. In this blog, we’ll provide an overview of the differences between an arborist and a tree surgeon, helping you determine what you need.
Many of us tend to use the terms ‘arborist’ and ‘tree surgeon’ interchangeably (some in the tree care industry even make the mistake!) However, although they share some similarities, arborist and tree surgeon are actually two discrete professions.
By understanding the differences between them, individuals can be better informed about which professional they might need for any tree care work that they need carried out.
So, let’s take a look at the definitions of ‘Arborist’ and ‘Tree Surgeon’:
Definition of Arborist
The most straightforward definition of an arborist is that they are a professional who focuses on the overall health and maintenance of trees. Generally speaking, arborists are trained to understand tree biology, physiology, and the environmental factors that affect tree health. This means that arborists tend to be certified, often through official organisations such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or The Arboricultural Association.
In terms of the work they do, arborists provide services ranging from tree pruning to pest and disease management, and from tree planting to soil management.
Definition of Tree Surgeon
Compared to an arborist, a tree surgeon primarily focuses on the physical care and surgical procedures required for trees. Tree surgeons will possess skills when it comes to using specialised equipment to treat trees that are damaged, diseased, or structurally unsafe (including tree/branch removal or crown reduction).
While tree surgeons often also have an understanding of tree health and biology, their primary focus is on the practical aspects of tree care, removal, and restoration.
Do I Need to Hire an Arborist or a Tree Surgeon?
Depending on the work you need done – and the condition of your trees and landscape – you might require either professional.
Arborists will take a holistic approach to tree care, focusing on the entire ecosystem surrounding a tree, including soil quality, sunlight, and tree species compatibility. This approach will be based on the certifications they have acquired.
Contrastingly, tree surgeons tend to have a more task-oriented approach, focusing on the immediate needs of the tree, such as removing unhealthy branches or uprooting a tree that poses a risk. They will offer practical solutions to the immediate problem at hand.
Here are some examples to illustrate when you might require one over the other:
Project Examples for Arborists
- Tree Planting: If you need to consult a professional about tree planting, arborists will come armed with a degree-level understanding of which tree species are best to plant for your natural environment. They’ll give you practical advice on planting techniques and everything you need to do to make sure your tree thrives.
- Investigating Diseases: If you notice strange symptoms in your trees – including things like wilting leaves or discolouration – an arborist is required to diagnose the problem. They will inform you about the cause of the disease, offer strategies for disease management, and suggest preventative measures for the future.
- General Ongoing Maintenance Projects: When it comes to routine tree care management – such as regular pruning or soil testing – an arborist is your best contact. They can create long-term maintenance plans that promote tree health and vitality.
Project Examples for Tree Surgeons
- Emergency Tree Removal: If a tree has fallen or is at risk of falling due to any number of environmental reasons, a tree surgeon will assess the situation and safely remove the tree, preventing it from becoming a hazard.
- Structural Repairs: When a tree has split or is suffering from limb decay, a tree surgeon will need to be called to take action. They will trim or brace the tree, preserving it and maintaining safety.
- Stump Grinding: After a tree has been removed, a tree surgeon can be called upon to grind down the leftover stump, making space for new planting or lawn usage.
Conclusion – Know Your Professional to Get The Best Service Possible
As this article makes clear, the professional you need for your tree work will depend on the exact nature of your project’s requirements. Arborists can assist you when it comes to the long-term health and maintenance of your trees, while tree surgeons can help you when it comes to taking immediate action (such as a branch falling or a tree being uprooted).
If you need to contact a tree specialist to carry out the specific kind of work detailed in this article, contact About Trees for a free consultation.
About Trees Ltd. is a long established tree surgeon and arborist that offers a professional tree care service around Kent including Faversham, Whitstable, Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks, Ashford, Maidstone and more. We build long lasting relationships, built on honesty and trust and are Kent Trading Standards Approved and CHAS accredited.
Our team has 25 years of knowledge working with trees with all our crews fully trained and certificated as well as carrying up-to-date First Aid qualifications and DBS checks.
