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When to Call an Arborist vs. DIY Tree Care

Prees trees
July 1, 2025

Trees are essential to our landscape, offering beauty, shade, and even increasing property value. As a homeowner, it’s tempting to tackle tree care tasks on your own, but there are times when calling a certified arborist is not just recommended—it’s necessary. In this guide, we’ll help you understand when it’s safe to perform DIY tree care and when you should bring in the experts.

Understanding DIY Tree Care

DIY tree care can be rewarding and manageable for certain tasks. Regular maintenance, like watering, mulching, and minor pruning, can often be handled by homeowners with the right tools and knowledge.

Basic Tree Care You Can Do Yourself

  • Watering: Trees need consistent watering, especially young ones. This task is essential and safe for homeowners.
  • Mulching: Proper mulching can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Homeowners can easily apply mulch themselves.
  • Small Pruning: Cutting small, reachable branches to maintain tree shape is usually safe, as long as proper techniques are followed.

For helpful tips on tree maintenance you can perform at home, you can explore our Tree Maintenance Guide.

When Tree Care Gets Risky

Certain situations require more than just a ladder and a pair of clippers. Tree care can become dangerous when height, equipment, or the tree’s condition pose risks.

Signs You Should Call an Arborist

  • Large or Overhanging Branches: If branches hang over your home or power lines, you should always call an arborist.
  • Signs of Disease: When trees exhibit decay, fungi, or dead branches, consult a professional immediately.
  • Storm Damage: After severe weather, trees may be unstable and dangerous. Let the experts assess and manage them safely.

Visit our Services Page to learn about the professional solutions we offer for complex tree care needs.

Key Benefits of Hiring an Arborist

Professional arborists, like those at Pree’s Tree Specialists, bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to every job. They can quickly diagnose tree issues, recommend the best course of action, and safely execute even the most challenging tasks.

Why Choose Certified Arborists

  • Expert Diagnosis: Professionals are trained to spot problems that homeowners may overlook.
  • Safety First: Arborists have the equipment and training to handle hazardous situations.
  • Long-Term Tree Health: Regular care from an arborist ensures the health and longevity of your trees.

To meet our dedicated team and learn more about our qualifications, visit our About Us Page.

Comparing Costs: DIY vs. Professional Service

Many homeowners opt for DIY to save money, but the potential costs of mistakes can be much higher. Improper pruning can lead to tree death, and attempting dangerous removals without the right equipment can lead to personal injury or property damage.

DIY Cost Risks

  • Purchasing or renting specialized tools can be expensive.
  • Potential hospital bills if injuries occur.
  • Property repairs if damage happens during a DIY attempt.

Arborist Service Costs

  • You pay for expert care, equipment, and safety.
  • Saves long-term costs by preserving tree health and avoiding accidents.

Discover more about the value of investing in proper tree care by exploring our article on 10 Warning Signs Your Tree Needs Expert Care.

Emergency Tree Care Situations

Some scenarios require immediate professional attention. After storms, or when trees lean dangerously, you should always call an arborist without delay.

Our emergency tree care services are just a call away. Contact us directly through our Contact Page for quick assistance.

When DIY Can Actually Harm Your Tree

Even well-intentioned DIY work can sometimes hurt your tree. Cutting large limbs incorrectly can cause stress or create entry points for disease.

Refer to our detailed post on 10 Signs Your Tree Needs Professional Attention to better understand when trees are in trouble.

Final Thoughts: Let the Experts Help Protect Your Landscape

Your trees are valuable assets, and knowing when to step back and call an arborist can make all the difference in preserving their beauty and safety. At Pree’s Tree Specialists, we are ready to partner with you to keep your landscape thriving.

If you’re unsure whether your tree needs professional care, we invite you to reach out to us today through our Contact Page. Let’s protect your trees together.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Care and Arborist Services

How do I know when my tree needs an arborist?

If your tree shows signs of disease, decay, storm damage, or has large branches near power lines, it’s time to consult an arborist who can assess the situation safely.

Can I prune large branches on my own?

Pruning large branches without professional training and equipment can be dangerous and may harm the tree. It’s best to contact a certified arborist for large or high branches.

What are the risks of DIY tree care?

DIY tree care can lead to personal injury, property damage, and long-term harm to the tree if improper techniques or tools are used.

When should I schedule a tree inspection?

You should schedule a tree inspection at least once a year or immediately after a storm to ensure your trees remain safe and healthy.

Is tree removal something I can handle myself?

Tree removal is highly dangerous without proper equipment and training. Professional arborists have the tools and expertise to handle removals safely.

What services does Pree’s Tree Specialists offer?

We provide comprehensive services including pruning, tree removal, disease treatment, emergency storm cleanup, and more. Visit our Services Page to learn more.

How can I maintain my trees between arborist visits?

You can regularly water your trees, apply mulch, and monitor them for signs of stress, but always consult an arborist for pruning or complex care.

Can I contact you for emergency tree services?

Yes, our team is available for emergency services. Visit our Contact Page to get immediate assistance.

What’s the benefit of hiring a local arborist?

Local arborists understand the unique tree species, soil, and climate challenges of the area, ensuring the best care for your specific landscape.

Where can I find more tree care resources?

You can explore a variety of helpful articles on our Tree Care Blog to learn more about maintaining healthy, beautiful trees.

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