Posted: November 11, 2025
Despite the old saying, sometimes money really can "grow on trees." Studies by research organizations and real estate professionals estimate that landscaping—especially when it includes healthy, mature, well-placed trees—can increase property value by as much as 20 percent.
Healthy, attractive trees add property value. Photo by Maureen Karl.
Properties with attractive trees also tend to sell faster than those without. In addition to enhancing curb appeal, trees provide shade and wind protection, which reduces energy costs. They release oxygen, absorb carbon dioxide, capture stormwater runoff, and offer food and shelter for beneficial insects and wildlife.
Unfortunately, if their maintenance needs are overlooked, trees will fail to reach their full potential and can become safety hazards and serious liabilities. Keeping trees healthy and attractive requires care throughout their lives, beginning with selecting well-structured specimens, planting properly, and paying attention to regular maintenance.
Homeowners can perform many common tree maintenance tasks, but some situations require professional expertise. You should contact an arborist for emergency storm damage repair and for dead or hazardous branches, wounds, or deep bark cracks, asymmetrical growth, or before construction or landscaping projects that might affect the tree's root zone. Pruning or removing trees, especially large ones, can be dangerous work. A good rule of thumb is that if you can’t reach a limb to be pruned from the ground, you should call an arborist.
Certified arborists are trained in climbing trees and using sharp tools and chainsaws. They know how to expertly select where to make pruning cuts and can trim large trees without causing damage to property. Trees showing signs of disease or pest infestation also benefit from an expert consultation with an arborist. Keep in mind that removing a live tree is usually less expensive than removing a dead one, since dead wood becomes brittle and dangerous, requiring additional safety measures.
When it comes to hiring an arborist, credentials matter. Look for certification from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). ISA-certified arborists must meet strict education and experience requirements, pass a written exam, and stay current with continuing education. The ISA website—treesaregood.org—provides a searchable directory of certified professionals by city or ZIP code.
A qualified arborist will do tree work properly and safely. Unqualified operators may damage the tree further and may not be insured, leaving you with the liability burden should things go wrong. An ISA-certified arborist would never recommend "topping" (severing large top limbs to reduce tree height) or use climbing spikes on living trees.
Except for emergency wound repairs, qualified arborists will only prune oak trees in winter when they are dormant, since fresh cuts in warmer months invite sap beetles that transmit oak wilt—a deadly disease that can spread to other nearby oaks and can kill a mature tree in a matter of weeks.
Professional tree work is not inexpensive. Arborists and their firms invest heavily in equipment, training, labor, and insurance. It is wise to obtain several quotes before making a decision. Most certified arborists provide free consultations and estimates, but even if you pay for one, the provider's skill and professionalism can matter more than the lowest price.
When interviewing potential arborists, don't hesitate to ask questions. Make sure you understand exactly what work will be done, how much it will cost, and how long it will take. Clearly communicate your expectations and negotiate if possible. You can sometimes save money by handling cleanup yourself or by coordinating with neighbors for combined site work.
Always request a written proposal or contract detailing the specific tasks, costs, timeline, and measures to protect your property. This allows you to compare bids fairly. Ask for proof of personal and property damage insurance, workers' compensation coverage, and any required pesticide applicator permits. Checking references is essential.
Be cautious of door-to-door solicitors, a practice particularly common after storms. Reputable companies rarely need to solicit business this way and often have full schedules. Avoid pressure tactics or "limited-time" deals. Never pay in advance.
Developing an ongoing relationship with a skilled arborist and scheduling regular preventive consultations is one of the best long-term investments you can make for your trees. "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" is one old saying that definitely holds true.
