Arborist vs. Tree Service: What’s the Difference and Who Should You Call?

Trees are a beautiful part of any landscape. They provide shade, improve air quality, and boost curb appeal. But when trees need care, trimming, or removal, it’s important to know who to call for help. Many homeowners hear about arborists and tree service companies, but aren’t always sure what the difference is.

Choosing the right professional can greatly impact the health and safety of your trees. Whether you’re worried about a dying oak or need help trimming large branches, understanding these roles will guide you in the right direction.

If you are searching for an arborist in Springfield, MO, knowing how an arborist’s skills differ from a general tree service and when each is the best choice is helpful.

What Is an Arborist?

An arborist is a trained tree care specialist. Arborists study tree biology, soil science, pest management, and proper pruning techniques. Many arborists are certified by organizations like the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), showing they have passed exams and gained hands-on experience.

Arborists focus on the long-term health and safety of trees. Their services include:

• Diagnosing diseases and pests
• Recommending treatment plans for sick trees
• Safe pruning to promote growth and reduce risk
• Tree risk assessments to prevent property damage
• Advising on proper planting and soil conditions

When you need an expert opinion on how to save, treat, or properly maintain a tree, an arborist is the professional you want.

What Is a Tree Service?

A tree service company provides the physical work needed to care for trees. This includes trimming, removing dead or hazardous trees, and clearing storm debris. While some tree service professionals have strong skills, they may not always have formal training in tree biology or disease management.

Tree service providers typically handle:

• Tree and limb removal
• Trimming and shaping trees for safety and appearance
• Stump grinding and removal
• Emergency storm cleanup
• Mulching and brush removal

If you need immediate help with a fallen tree or branches hanging dangerously close to your home, a tree service company is the one to call.

Key Differences Between Arborists and Tree Services

Arborists specialize in tree health and long-term care, while tree service companies focus on cutting, removal, and urgent physical work.

When to Call an Arborist

There are specific situations where an arborist’s knowledge is especially valuable:

• A tree shows signs of illness, like discolored leaves, weak branches, or unusual growths.
• You want to save a tree rather than remove it.
• A valuable or historic tree needs special care.
• You’re planning landscaping and want to plant trees that will thrive.
• You need a tree risk assessment for insurance or property development.

An arborist can help create a treatment or management plan that preserves your trees’ health and beauty for years.

When to Call a Tree Service

Other times, quick action and physical labor are the main priorities. You should call a tree service when:

• A tree has fallen, or large limbs are hanging dangerously.
• You need a tree completely removed due to damage or property needs.
• You want trees trimmed for appearance or to clear space around structures.
• You need stumps removed after a tree falls or is cut down.
• You require help clearing storm debris from your yard.

Tree service teams have the equipment and experience to safely and efficiently handle dangerous or large-scale jobs.

Can You Hire Both?

In many cases, yes. You might hire an arborist to evaluate the situation if you have a major tree concern. Then, based on their recommendation, you may hire a tree service company to handle the physical work. Some companies offer both services, while others focus on one or the other.

A clear diagnosis and plan from an arborist before major trimming or removal ensures that your trees receive the right care and that you’re making the best decision for your property.

Benefits of Working With an Arborist

Choosing to work with an arborist brings extra benefits beyond basic tree maintenance:

• Preserve mature trees, which add value and beauty to your home.
• Avoid unnecessary removals by diagnosing treatable issues.
• Protect your property from future tree-related hazards.
• Improve tree longevity through proper pruning and soil management.
• Support environmental health by maintaining a strong, diverse urban forest.

Healthy trees are an asset, and investing in their care pays off in beauty and property value.

Conclusion

Both arborists and tree service companies play an important role in keeping your trees and property safe, healthy, and beautiful. Knowing when to call each one can save you time, money, and stress. An arborist brings deep knowledge of tree biology and health, while a tree service company offers the tools and manpower to handle urgent or heavy-duty tasks.

Homeowners looking for trusted, expert help can rely on Springfield Tree Trimming & Removal Service. Their team of certified arborists and skilled tree specialists provides complete care, from diagnosis and treatment to safe removal and cleanup. Contact them today to schedule a consultation and ensure your trees are cared for correctly.