Re: [SG] Arborists

Everyone's tree viewpoints have been extremely elucidating so I thought I
would share mine. When we first moved here and thought we needed some tree
work we asked for recommendations from our friends. Most recommended the
same arborist, who was quite expensive but, they said, worth it. We got
the man out for an estimate, he frightened us by saying if our trees
weren't pruned properly they would be dead in a short while; and he quoted
a price that made our eyes bug out. Fortunately, we had the presence of
mind to ask where we could see examples of his work. We did check out his
work, and saw that he was a total butcher. He is no longer in business,
but I emphasize that he was considered excellent by many people. Another
arborist came out, who said that for the time being we didn't need
anything at all done to our trees--something we were happy to hear, after
that $2000 bid from the first guy.

My point is, ask for references (just like anything else), and check them
out for yourself. Visit the property; don't just phone the homeowner.
Certainly don't let just anyone who comes to your door work on your trees,
but don't accept a friend's recommendation at face value either; they may
not know beans about trees! And be extremely suspicious about the use of
scare tactics!

Bobbi Diehl
Bloomington, IN
zone 5/6
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