Tree Care Terminology

Commonly used terms in the Tree Care Industry and their definitions -

Arboriculture: The scientific cultivation of trees and shrubs

Arborist: A professional who, through experience, education, and training, holds the expertise and ability to provide management of trees and other woody plants

Tree Preservation: The protection of specific trees or a particular area, group or woodland from intentional damage or destruction

Risk Evaluation: The inspection of trees that may present danger or a hazardous condition

Plant Appraisal: The value that is added to the property from the trees and landscaping

Pruning Practices

• Crown: The branches and leaves on a tree measured from the lowest branch on the trunk
• Limb: A large major branch
• Lead: A dominant or prevailing vertical stem
• Decay: The decomposition of woody tissue
• Pruning: Removal of specific plant parts to accomplish exact goals and objectives
• Crown Cleaning: Removal of dead wood and any broken or diseased branches
• Crown Thinning: Removal of specific branches to permit better air movement and light penetration
• Crown Raising: Removal of lower branches over roofs and sidewalks
• Crown Reduction: Reduction of the height and/or spread of the tree through proper pruning practices

Tree Practices

• Cabling: Provides extra support to limbs with weak joints
• Bracing: Use of steel rods in limbs, leads or trunks provide firm support
• Staking: Installation of guy wires to support a tree
• Root Pruning: Process of cutting the roots of an established tree to promote growth of new feeder roots after it has been transplanted
• Damage Restoration: Specific pruning to improve the structure and appearance of the tree due to damage from a storm or vandalism

Tree Removal: The cutting down of a tree that has declined so far that no other option is available to ensure the safety of persons and things

Stump Removal: Grinding the main stump

Crane Removal: Removing hazardous limbs and trees through the use of hoisting equipment

Lot Clearing: Cutting down trees on a piece of land to provide clear space for construction or other similar uses