Trees and shrubs in landscapes provide several benefits: shade, habitat for wildlife, increased property value, and beauty. An eight-foot-tall tree you proudly planted may now be 30 feet tall and more difficult to care for. This is where a Certified Arborist can mean the difference between a well-managed tree and a tree that just manages to survive. I sat down recently with Jason Anderson, Board Certified Master Arborist and co-owner of Arborscapes in Midlothian. I have known Jason for a number of years through the volunteer work he does for the Chesterfield County Cooperative Extension Service and I am also a client of his company.
Arborists are trained professionals, knowledgeable in the care of existing trees and shrubs including: proper pruning, integrated pest management (see my August 5, 2015 column), soil testing, and prescription fertilization based on soil test results. A Certified Arborist must have arboriculture experience or a combination of a degree and experience before taking an exam, passing, and receiving a certificate. The exam and the certification are administered by the International Society of Arboriculture.
A typical day for an arborist involves diagnosing issues and developing a management plan to provide solutions to residential and commercial clients. It also involves carrying out the plans with professional equipment and skill. Some arborists plant trees and those who do not are knowledgeable on tree installation and can give advice on proper tree selection and placement. i.e. right plant, right place. I asked Jason a few questions.
What is important when selecting a tree at a nursery? If selecting a red maple or similar tree, purchase a tree with one central leader which is strong and straight. Red maples are prone to having two or more leaders. These leaders are not as strong as one central leader and breakage in storms is common.
What are some common insects and diseases for trees in our area? Cottony camellia scale, ambrosia beetles, mites (mites are arachnids but are still pests), and aphids. If we have a cool and wet spring, trees with root rot and leaf diseases are common.
If you have issues with trees and shrubs in your landscape, winter is an excellent time to research local arborists. Select a few to review your landscape with you and provide an estimate on a management plan. Your trees and shrubs will thank you.
