An interesting misspelling appeared in ‘another’ newspaper, within an advertisement for tree work. I can not remember all the details of the ad, but happen to recall that it mentioned “topping” and “shopping” among the various services performed. It is most likely that the “op” of “shopping” should have been simply an “a”. However, because the misspelling is in the context of the term “topping”, I can’t help but wonder if the “s” of “shopping” was intended to be a “c”. But of course, chopping would be redundant to topping anyway.
Some of the best arborist I know of are great tree workers. In fact, I occasionally work with some of them. Unfortunately, there are many more ‘hackers’ who will perform such immoral acts as topping and chopping; and some even frequently visit the malls. Because mature trees are the most substantial features of a garden, they deserve the best. Less substantial features may recover from abuse or be replaced; but trees may be more severely damaged if improperly engaged and are not easily replaced.
Most of the best arborists are certified as arborists by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). The most reputable of tree service establishments are likewise affiliated with the ISA and employ certified arborists. Such affiliation is certainly an indication of dedication to the industry.
Hackers rarely display such affiliations and can often be identified by their unprofessional presentation. Those that advertise services that are arboriculturally abusive, such as topping should be avoided. Likewise, those that advertise services that are not remotely related to arboriculture are not specialized enough to work on your trees. For example, an arborist who hauls associated brush and performs stump grinding may be legitimate; but someone who also hauls trash and builds fences probably doesn’t take arboriculture very seriously.
I also recommend smaller, local arboricultural establishments that more efficiently manage ‘quality control’. Others (you know the ones) may compromise quality to maximize production, regardless of the number of staff arborists. Pruning that they commonly perform for clearance of utility cables is certainly very important, but the unfortunately necessary techniques simply are not appropriate for every application.
Landscapers and maintenance gardeners are not so easily identified and are not nearly as common. Landscapers and landscape designers are perhaps best found by referral by satisfied clients. Credentials are certainly a good indication of dedication to the industry, but are variable among the various professionals. I suppose that good gardeners should be found in the same manner, but I have yet to hear from anyone who is satisfied with a particular gardener enough to recommend his services to an associate.
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