The Importance of Trees & Why Certified Arborists Are the Gold Standard in Tree Care

Trees do far more than beautify landscapes; they are essential to life itself. They produce oxygen, store carbon, provide shade, prevent soil erosion, and support biodiversity. Whether in urban or rural areas, healthy trees enhance property values, reduce energy costs, and improve overall quality of life. However, these benefits can only be maintained with proper tree care, which is why hiring the right professionals is crucial.

The Risks of Hiring Unqualified Tree Companies

Tree care is a science that requires expertise, experience, and adherence to industry best practices. Unfortunately, many companies offer tree services without the proper credentials or training. Hiring unqualified contractors can result in:

• Improper Pruning — Cutting too much or in the wrong places can stress trees, leading to disease or death.

• Unsafe Removals — Incorrect tree removal techniques can damage property, injure workers, and create liability issues.

• Topping Practices — Some companies still engage in tree topping, which is highly damaging and leaves trees susceptible to decay and structural failure.

• Lack of Insurance & Certification — Many companies operate without proper licensing or insurance, putting homeowners at financial risk.

Why Certified Arborists Represent the Gold Standard

ISA Certified Arborist Logo/Patch

Certified Arborists undergo rigorous training and testing to ensure they have the knowledge required to provide expert tree care. The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist credential signifies that an individual has met high standards in arboriculture through education and experience. Certified Arborists understand tree biology, disease management, proper pruning techniques, and how to enhance tree longevity while minimizing risks.

However, even within the world of certified professionals, not all credentials are equal.

How a Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA) Stands Above

Among arborists, the ISA Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA) credential is the highest level of certification. While ISA Certified Arborists demonstrate solid knowledge of tree care, a BCMA has achieved mastery in advanced arboricultural techniques, risk assessment, and tree preservation strategies. This distinction means that when you hire an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist, you’re getting the absolute best in the field.

At Andrews Tree Services, we take pride in offering expert tree care led by a Board Certified Master Arborist, ensuring the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and tree health. Our services include hazardous tree removals, pruning, land clearing, and tree preservation techniques designed to keep your landscape thriving.

ISA Board Certified Master Arborist Logo/Patch

Protect Your Trees & Property — Hire a True Professional

When it comes to tree care, cutting corners can lead to costly consequences. Hiring a credentialed professional like a Board Certified Master Arborist ensures that your trees receive the expert attention they need. Don’t gamble with your property’s safety and aesthetics — choose proven expertise.

Explore our Project Gallery to see the work we’ve done, read real testimonials from satisfied customers, and learn more about our services.

For professional tree care, contact us today via our Contact Us page or visit our Tree Care Blog for more expert insights.

Chris Andrews BCMA #FL-9222B

ANDREWS TREE SERVICES

Sustainability

Home Improvement

Landscaping And Gardening

Local Small Business

Environmental Science

How to Keep Your Trees Healthy & Strong

Southern Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) on Lake Harris

Trees are one of the most valuable assets on your property. They provide shade, enhance curb appeal, and even increase property value. However, without proper care, trees can become hazardous, diseased, or even die prematurely. In this guide, we’ll share expert tree care tips to help you maintain healthy, thriving trees year-round.

1. Regular Tree Trimming & Pruning

Tree trimming isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s essential for tree health and safety. Pruning removes dead or diseased branches, promotes healthy growth, and prevents potential hazards like falling limbs.

Benefits of Regular Tree Trimming:

• Improves tree structure and longevity

• Reduces the risk of storm damage

• Enhances sunlight penetration for better growth

• Prevents diseases from spreading

For best results, pruning should be done by a certified arborist who understands the correct techniques and timing for each tree species. Enjoy these informative videos we created to help the general public obtain a basic understanding of tree care;

Pruning Young Trees: https://youtu.be/D9s07GbTNqo

Pruning Mature Trees:https://youtu.be/gSjVMOOMsf4

Why topping hurts trees: https://youtu.be/A3LMUxiqb20

2. Identifying & Removing Hazardous Trees

A damaged or diseased tree can pose a serious risk to your home and family. Look out for these warning signs:

• Leaning Trees: Sudden tilting or leaning indicates root instability.

• Cracks or Splits: Deep cracks in the trunk can signal structural failure.

• Dead or Hanging Branches: These can fall unexpectedly, causing damage or injury.

• Decay or Fungal Growth: Mushrooms at the tree’s base can indicate internal rot. But not always, Mycorrhizal Roots are essential for tree growth, This is a fungus that adheres to the root and feeds the tree. When mushrooms are found anywhere under the canopy contact an Arborist immediately to get a positive ID.

If you notice any of these signs, consult a professional arborist immediately to assess whether the tree should be pruned, treated, or removed for safety. You can also watch this informative video we created to help others grasp a basic understanding of some potentially hazardous issues with trees: https://youtu.be/9mLX8qrz9Dw

3. Proper Watering Techniques

Many homeowners assume trees don’t need watering, but young and newly planted trees require consistent moisture. Even mature trees can suffer during droughts. Once the tree has survived the first year of planting we should be encouraging root development out in to the native soil. Ideally we would achieve this by not wateringnear the base of the tree. We wouldapply the water only under the out half under the canopy extending out 50% beyond the drip line.

Tree Watering Tips:

• Deep Watering: Water slowly and deeply at the root zone rather than shallow surface watering.

• Morning Watering: Watering early in the day helps prevent evaporation.

• Mulching: A 2–4 inch layer of mulch around the base helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

4. Soil Health & Fertilization

Healthy soil is the foundation of strong trees. Over time, soil can become compacted or depleted of essential nutrients. Testing your soil and applying the right fertilizer can enhance growth and disease resistance.

Best Practices for Soil Care:

• Aeration: Loosen compacted soil to improve root oxygenation.

• Organic Mulching: Wood chips or compost provide nutrients as they break down.

• Balanced Fertilization: Avoid over-fertilizing, which can stress the tree.

We created this video to help the general public with a basic understanding of the very complex soil web beneath their feet: https://youtu.be/XqZtmBkmbVo

5. Hiring a Certified Arborist

Tree care requires expertise, especially when dealing with large trees, disease management, or hazardous removals. Hiring a certified arborist ensures your trees get professional care that enhances their health and safety.

At Andrews Tree Services, we provide expert tree trimming, hazardous tree removal, and land clearing. Our ISA Board Certified Master Arborist ensures your trees receive top-notch care.

🌳 Visit Our Website for a Free Consultation!

Final Thoughts

Proactive tree care saves money in the long run by preventing costly damage and extending tree life. Whether you need pruning, health assessments, or removal services, partnering with a trusted tree care professional is the best way to ensure your trees remain an asset, not a liability.

For expert tree services, contact Andrews Tree Services today and let us help you maintain safe, beautiful, and healthy trees year-round! 🌿

Cypress Trees (Taxodium distichum) on Lake Harris

Tree Care

Trees

Tree Trimming

Arborist

Arborist Services