Trees add value to your property with shade, cooling, and even air pollution absorption.

To provide you with tremendous value, trees need to be healthy, strong and well-maintained.

If the trees are full of disease or insects or are overgrown and full of dead branches, they can be eyesores and even liabilities.

When dealing with large trees, you should think about hiring a tree-care professional, one that has experience and education. You might be familiar with the term “certified arborist” and wonder what that means and what the benefits are for you.

A certified arborist earns this title from the International Society of Arboriculture through work experience and accredited education.

To obtain certification, potential tree-care workers must take an exam and an application process that includes reference letters and multiple verifications.

You would hire a certified arborist because they have the knowledge and skills necessary to properly identify, maintain, troubleshoot and care for your trees. To keep this accreditation, they must remain updated on tree-care best practices through continuing education. They have a commitment to tree care, as well as working safely and ethically.

Tree care, in particular pruning and removal, is a job for a trained arborist. There are several risks associated with tree work: the need to carefully maneuver around overhead power lines or underground utilities and knowing how to use powerful and sometimes dangerous equipment. Even the height and weight of a tree puts arborists at risk when they’re climbing, trimming or removing a tree.

Never assume you’re dealing with a licensed tree service. Always ask. This is critical because if you hire a company or someone without these credentials, you can be held liable for any on-the-job injuries or damages that happen while working on your trees and property. A reputable tree service will have no problem providing you with the license and insurance information before taking on a job.

Tree care is tough work. Not only are there heights involved with many trees, but branches can be unstable and heavy, and making the proper pruning cuts at the right times, depending on the tree species, is essential to tree health.

There’s also proper identification of the tree species, as well as any potential problems, so you can get the right mix to solutions.

Stay away from working with arborists if they recommend topping to reduce the height of your tree, and if they don’t provide a detailed description of their services. The price should be clear and concise, and they should be able to explain what service they’re recommending and why. If climbing is to be done, ask how they will climb the tree. Spikes can cause damaging wounds and should not be used.

Ask questions before you decide on the best tree service. Make sure the company is licensed and insured. Find out what credentials they have and references they can provide you. It is best to make sure that they are a “certified arborist.”

“Growing Green” is contributed by Diane Dorn, Lehigh County Extension Office Staff, and Master Gardeners. Information: Lehigh County Extension Office, 610-391-9840; Northampton County Extension Office, 610-813-6613.