An arborist, also known as an arborist or tree doctor, is an expert in the field of arbovirology, which are the study, treatment, and maintenance of trees, shrubs, bushes, and vines, and other woody plant life in horticulture and forestry. In landscaping and garden design, an arborist is often consulted for proper planting of trees. The term “arborist” may be used to describe any of these professionals, but they all work on trees. Some are landscape architects, others are teachers, while others simply do the work. Their services range from planting shrubs and bushes to examining and diagnosing arbors, trees, bridges, etc.
In landscaping, a landscape arborist usually deals with the larger tree removal jobs. These include cutting down unwanted trees so the area is better maintained, clearing the way for new growth, pruning branches that are encroaching on a sidewalk or public space, etc. In a large urban setting, there may be a demand for arborists who can perform tree removal and pruning work. In some communities, the group has become especially critical because of concerns about air quality and the lack of space for trees. A good arborist is one who can do both garden maintenance and tree removal without killing or maiming any of the trees in the process.
Some arborists have taken it upon themselves to establish nurseries where they grow and teach arborists all about trees, such as pruning, plant growth, tree removal, etc. In many cases, these arborists are also skilled arborists who perform jobs such as wiring, installing handrails, etc., but not limited to these tasks. In many cases, individuals with an interest in arboristry may want to grow or participate in arborizing in order to take advantage of their skills.
In order to be a certified arborist (even in states that do not require this), an individual must first complete a training program provided by a professional organization. Once trained, the individual then needs to obtain a certification from the arborist organization that he or she works with. These certifications should be renewed periodically and be based on the specific kind of tree care work that an arborist is involved in. The arborist certification should be held in a prominent place, such as in a window of the arborist’s office or at the county courthouse. It will help prospective arborists to get a job if they have a certification.
Today, planting trees is no longer seen as something that is mainly decorative; nowadays, planting is seen as part of an overall effort to improve the health of the environment. In fact, arborists are hired by many environmental organizations to plant trees for the purpose of beautification and restoration. They plant trees that have been mature enough to bear fruit. This helps the environment by reducing the amount of trees that need to be cut down.
Whether or not an individual is aware of it, he or she may be exposing him or herself to a tree risk. Arborists may plant trees in one’s yard, but there are still dangers lurking beneath the surface. Even if the homeowner doesn’t know about it, his or her exposure to tree risk can pose real and dangerous risks to him or her.