Which Tree Is It Anyway?

Originally posted Sept 2023.

Cutting a tree down is one thing; knowing the details of the tree's life is another.

We've mentioned in previous posts about how essentially anyone with the right gear can present themselves as a tree surgeon, however having true knowledge of the trees they work on is what can clearly divide the arborist community. Do you know your Sycamores from your Oaks? Can you identify a tree based off its leaves, bark or flowers/fruits? Or what issues present themselves in certain species?

Here at Deadwood Arborists, we emphasize the importance of being able to ID a tree and understand its qualities with our team. Of course, that may not be the approach other companies take; many may have the prerogative that their arborists are essentially just there to cut/chip/grind whatever they're told.

Why do we consider it so important for our team to consistently establish their tree knowledge? Why are we not content with them just getting the job done? Let's consider the following...

First of all, we want everyone working with us to want to be there. Beyond the aspect of it being a job, we want them to specifically want their job to be in this industry and with that level of commitment there should be a genuine interest in what they're doing. They should want to know about the trees they are working on in order to fully understand all aspects of what they are doing and why; exactly what is in the best interests of this specific tree and their own role in handling it. By no means do they need to have a deep rooted obsession with the subject, we just imagine there would be an ambition to remain appropriately informed.

As much as we want our team to invest in their position, we also want to invest in them. If they can offer the level of engagement we hope for, then they deserve for us to collaborate on their efforts. We have the means to support their development as arboriculturalists and not only train them in the practical aspects of their position but also endorse the theory element. Regular on-site discussions allow for us to understand where each individual stands in terms of their tree knowledge and what they could benefit from us focusing on in future, off-site, sessions.

The notion of professionalism is not just procured through the visual aesthetic of how the business is presented. A lot of it comes down to those actually conducting the professional services; their manners and how apparent it is they know what they're doing. If someone goes to quote for or carry out work on a tree but can't even identify it then a client could potentially have doubts. Certainly, there will always be exceptions to this in regards to unique and imported species; hence why we always suggest the use of appropriate apps (such as the the one presented by the Woodland Trust) to support spontaneous education when uncertain.

For the reasonings summarised above and beyond, Deadwood Arborists remain adamant that development of knowledge can be just as important as skill when working in the arboricultural industry. After all, if we intend to be the best tree care providers around then we have to be able to back it up...