In Florida, you don’t currently have to be certified or licensed in any way in order to work with trees, and there are some very knowledgable and skilled men and women out there who don’t have any credential.

That being said, becoming an ISA Certified Arborist requires that a person have a minimum exposure within the industry and be able to pass tests to demonstrate a basic understanding of science-based industry best management practices on subjects ranging from tree biology and pruning to chainsaw and wood chipper safety. By their voluntary action of pursuing training and education, they demonstrate that they take pride in what they do. An arborist is more likely to be aware of what he doesn’t know, and know where to find answers to questions around topics he might not yet be conversant in. He is also more likely to be in compliance with safety regulations that protect you and your property and more likely to be involved in a bigger network of professional practitioners. You don’t have to hire an arborist, but at least see what they might have to say, since it’s free anyway!

To learn more, check out our video on what you should know before hiring a tree service in the state of Florida.

Go to treesaregood.org and click “Verify a Credential”. From there you can search by name or certification number, or you can use their “Find an Arborist” tool to search for Certified Arborists by location.

When you call our office, we will try to work with you to schedule a time that is convenient for you. If you don’t reach us, leaving a message will typically get you a call back within 24 hours. We generally offer appointments in 2 hour time slots throughout the week so that you can plan the rest of your day freely.  Give us a call at: (352)527-8352!

Great question with a kind of complex answer. For most situations in Florida, it is acceptable to prune at any time of the year. Tree species, tree health, pruning dose, and pruning goals, are just a few of the factors that can play into how that question is best answered, and we are happy to assess your particular needs, year round, with a commitment to best management practices.

We almost never recommend topping. It is a practice that research has shown to do more harm than good.

Topping often creates wounds that trees cannot cover over or compartmentalize before decay sets in to the wound and begins moving down the stem. Even if cuts are small enough and tree vigor is high, the resulting structure when several new sprouts originate at the same point is one that creates weak attachments and makes future management very difficult.  If your goal is to lower the risk associated with your tree(s), there are better options that promote the health of the tree and do not leave an eyesore (even temporarily). If you have other reasons for topping, we may still have a more ideal solution. Try us!

Check out www.isa-arbor.com for more info.