YOUR TREES

Topping

The removal of weak, diseased, or dead limbs can be easily completed at any time of year, however, with almost no residual effect on the tree. However, we come now to a word – related to “tree removal” – which we never use here at Abe’s. The word is “topping.”

A hateful term related to the indiscriminate cutting of tree branches, topping involves the cutting of limbs to stubs or the reckless trimming of lateral branches not large enough to assume the terminal role, that is, branches too small to allow remaining buds to grow and a new terminal buds to form. Topping is doubtless the most harmful tree-pruning practice ever undertaken, and yet it remains far too common a practice, even among allegedly professional tree trimmers. You may also hear the practice referred to as “heading,” “tipping,” “hat-racking,” or “rounding over.” Avoid topping, and anyone who would suggest it to you.

ISA Certification

An arborist, by definition, is someone trained in the art and science of planting, caring for, and maintaining individual trees.  An arborist, by certification, is something more.

The International Society of Aboriculture (ISA) has compiled a demanding set of standards involving technical knowledge and individual expertise in the care of trees. Rigorous testing follows on these standards then, and only the most experienced, most knowledgeable tree-care professionals qualify for ISA certification.

Earning this credential is voluntary, of course, but the ISA Certificate ensures you of Abe’s knowledge, Abe’s skills even as it suggests our dedication to the profession and the community at large. As ISA itself says, “Continuing education makes the world be a better place, one tree at a time.”