If you are in need of tree work, particularly if you have concerns as we move into hurricane season, it is important that you find a qualified professional to do that tree work for you. We suggest that you select a certified arborist by going to the Trees are Good website from the International Society of Arboriculture. If a tree professional is listed on this website, they maintain qualifications by attending classes and passing tests based on tree care practices. You can search the website based on your address. Additionally, use this checklist when hiring someone to do tree work in your yard.

1. Ask the tree company if they top trees. If the answer is yes, avoid this service!
2. Ask for references.
3. Ask if the company has all licensing, insurance, and certifications to perform the work. Also ask them if permits are required and if they will be responsible for obtaining those.
4. Ask what course or book on tree maintenance they have recently attended or read. This will help you gauge if they are up-to-date on proper practices.
5. Ask for proof of personal and property liability insurance.
6. Ask for proof of workers compensation.
7. Ask about their safety standards. Do they know what the ANSI A300 pruning standard and the ANSI Z133.1 safety standards are?
8. Get a written proposal and get multiple quotes.

Be cautious of using companies with the lowest price, and cannot give you all of the references listed above. If you have additional questions about selecting a tree service, contact us.

For more information, contact UF/IFAS Extension Polk County at (863) 519-1041 or visit us online at http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/polk. The Plant Clinic is open Monday-Friday, 9:00 am-4:00 pm to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. Give us a call, or email us at polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu.

If you are not in Polk County, Contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Clinic.

The Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Program is a volunteer-driven program that benefits UF/IFAS Extension and the citizens of Florida. The program extends the vision of the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, all the while protecting and sustaining natural resources and environmental systems, enhancing the development of human resources, and improving the quality of human life through the development of knowledge in agricultural, human and natural resources and making that knowledge accessible.

An Equal Opportunity Institution.

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