Understanding the Role of an Arborist
Trees bring beauty, shade, and value to any property, but keeping them healthy requires more than occasional trimming. That’s where a professional arborist comes in. Arborists are trained experts in tree care and arboriculture, with knowledge that goes far beyond basic landscaping. They diagnose diseases, manage pests, perform safe tree removal, and apply advanced techniques such as tree cabling and bracing to keep large trees structurally sound.
Hiring an arborist is not just about appearances—it’s about safety, long-term tree health, and protecting your investment in your landscape.
Why Should You Hire an Arborist?
One of the main reasons is safety. Large branches or weakened trunks can pose risks to homes, power lines, and people. Arborists know how to handle these hazards properly, often using cabling and bracing systems to reduce the chance of breakage.
Another reason is expertise. Certified arborists have passed rigorous exams like the ISA Certified Arborist Exam, ensuring they understand everything from pruning standards to soil health. They’re also required to continue learning, which means they stay up to date with the best tree care practices.
What Personality Traits Do Arborists Have?
Arborists are not just technicians—they are problem solvers with a passion for nature. Common traits include:
Attention to detail – spotting early signs of disease or decay.
Patience and persistence – tree care often requires long-term management.
Physical strength and stamina – climbing and handling equipment is part of the job.
Commitment to safety – both for themselves and for the community.
These traits are why hiring a professional makes such a difference compared to attempting tree care on your own.
Arboriculture Salary and Career Questions
You might be wondering: how much does an arborist make? Salaries vary depending on experience, certification, and location. Entry-level wages are different from those with advanced credentials such as Master Arborist salary or ISA Certified Arborist salary.
The average salary for arborist roles in the U.S. is competitive compared to other trades.
With experience, some professionals reach higher arborist pay grades and even six-figure incomes.
So, can an arborist make 100k a year? Yes, it’s possible—especially for those who specialize in utility work, consulting, or advanced arboriculture services.
This career path also attracts people who value outdoor work and independence, making arborist income rewarding beyond just wages.
What Is the 90 3 90 Rule for Utility Arborists?
The 90 3 90 rule is a safety guideline used in utility arboriculture. It reminds workers to keep a 90-degree angle when approaching energized lines, maintain 3 feet of clearance when working near conductors, and ensure a 90-degree approach to cuts for efficiency and safety. This illustrates why certified training is so essential in the field.
Arborist Certification and Testing
Becoming certified requires passing a recognized exam. The arborist certification test covers topics like tree biology, soil science, risk assessment, and safe work practices. Preparing often includes reviewing a certified arborist practice test or ISA testing materials.
If you’re curious about your local professionals, you can even perform a certified arborist lookup or review the list of certified arborists through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).
Finding a Local Arborist Near You
If you’re searching online for a “certified tree arborist near me”, you’ll likely see a variety of results. The key is to check for credentials, reviews, and proven experience. Some people even narrow their search by location, like “arborist near me within 5 mi” or “female arborist near me.”
When you’re looking for the best certified arborist near me, consider these factors:
Certification and training (ISA credentials).
Arborists near me reviews – feedback from real clients.
Experience with advanced services such as tree cabling, bracing, and disease management.
Choosing a top rated arborist near me ensures that your trees receive professional care backed by both science and practice.
Tree Cabling and Bracing: Protecting Your Trees
One of the specialized techniques arborists use is cabling and bracing trees. This involves installing tree braces and cables to provide structural support to weak branches or split trunks.
Tree cabling kits and tree bracing systems use high-strength steel rods and cables.
These supports reduce the risk of failure during storms or heavy winds.
Proper tree cabling and bracing techniques can extend the life of valuable or historic trees.
Only trained arborists should install these systems, since improper use of tree cabling supplies can cause more harm than good.
The Value of Hiring an Arborist
So, why hire an experienced arborist? Because they bring expertise, safety, and dedication to every tree they care for. Whether it’s diagnosing disease, improving structure with tree care bracing rods, or simply ensuring your property looks its best, arborists are essential for maintaining healthy landscapes.
From understanding arborist wages to recognizing the skills required for certification, it’s clear that arborists are more than just tree workers—they are professionals dedicated to protecting both people and nature.
