Urban trees and trees in a forest have very different needs due to their environment. An urban environment is much more stressful for trees; parking lots, parks, neighborhoods, and backyards all mean the trees are competing for limited resources to survive.

So how does a tree stay healthy and well-maintained in the DFW metroplex? The role of a tree surgeon is vital in keeping our community’s trees healthy and safe. Let’s dig deeper into what a tree surgeon is and why they’re essential.

Understanding the Role of a Tree Surgeon

Tree surgeons, also known as arborists, specialize in the care and maintenance of trees. They ensure that trees are healthy, safe, and aesthetically pleasing by understanding the biology and needs of different tree species. The importance of their role is akin to that of a doctor, treating trees with the precision needed to preserve their health and beauty. 

Unlike landscapers who focus on overall garden aesthetics, tree surgeons are educated with deep specialized knowledge in tree care. They possess the technical expertise necessary to tackle challenges unique to tree biology and structural integrity.

Key Responsibilities of a Tree Surgeon

From pruning branches to performing complex surgery on trees, tree surgeons do it all. They are responsible for diagnosing tree diseases, conducting tree removal, and identifying potential hazards and mitigating them before they become serious threats.

Tree surgeons utilize cabling and bracing to prevent breakage, use specialized tools like sonic tomography or resistograph to closely examine the health of a tree.

Pruning and trimming are crucial tasks that help improve trees’ health and appearance. Pruning involves the removal of dead or damaged branches to promote robust growth. This meticulous work requires precision to ensure the tree maintains its natural structure while increasing air circulation amongst its branches. Overpruning is incredibly dangerous to a tree’s health and structure. Using only arborists ensures you are hiring a knowledgeable professional who follows the Tree Care Industry Association (ANSI A300) accepted tree care standards for the United States.

In addition tree surgeons may prescribe tree health care such as; air spading, soil amendments, or fertilization.

In cases where a tree cannot be saved, tree surgeons must recommend removal. This involves carefully dismantling the tree in a controlled manner to prevent damage to nearby property, ensuring the utmost safety during the process by following ANSI best practices.

How to Become a Tree Surgeon

Considering a career as a tree surgeon? You’ll need specialized training in arboriculture and a love for the outdoors. Certification and hands-on experience are key to thriving in this field. Pursuing qualifications such as the ISA Certified Arborist credential can significantly enhance your employability and effectiveness on the job.

Much like the training a doctor undergoes, a budding tree surgeon will embark on a journey of education that can involve courses in botany, forestry, and even soil science. Internships or apprentice roles can further enrich a tree surgeon’s practical knowledge, allowing them to learn directly from experienced professionals and get a hands-on feel for the work that awaits.

At Texas Tree Surgeons we love trees. Tree surgeons are the unsung heroes of arboriculture, dedicated to preserving the health and beauty of our trees. We are proud to employ ISA Certified Arborists and Board Certified Master Arborists holding both Tree Risk Assessment and Texas Oak Wilt Qualifications. Our arborists are committed to continuing education and growing in the knowledge and practice of their profession. Our full-service tree care team includes experienced crews who train under an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist, Texas Department of Agriculture Licensed Applicators who apply our plant health care products, and a diverse support staff who handle all aspects of our locally-owned and family-run business. We are always happy to answer your questions about how we work and what we do. To learn more about our services, training, and experience, browse our website or get in touch!