Most people have woody shrubs on their property, although it is popular opinion that these plants don’t need caring for, this is not the case. Despite being primarily self-sufficient, sometimes they may need pruning, or get a disease. It can be important to contact arborists to check up on woody shrubs to ensure they are healthy and not becoming a hazard on your land. The best way to go about this is to ask for a tree assessment report. So here is everything you need to know about plant appraisals.
What is a tree assessment report?
A tree assessment report is undertaken to determine the health of any plants on your property. These appraisals are often referred to as preventative plant care, as they can alert homeowners to any potential issues before they become major problems. If an unhealthy plant is left, it can end up costing thousands to repair, however, if caught early, there are often more cost effective options available.
Why would I need one?
It is recommended you get a tree assessment report if you notice any problems with woody shrubs on your property. This could include dead limbs, cracks in the bark or contact with power lines. Many arborists also suggest you get an inspection done after a big storm, as this may have caused damage to the plant. The best thing to remember is that the sooner you catch the problem, the easier and cheaper it is to fix. So if in doubt, it is often best to contact an arborist and get their professional advice. Furthermore, in some circumstances these inspections are ordered by the city council for tree protection purposes. There are large fines attached to ignoring or refusing council requests, so make sure you get an inspection completed if you are required to.
What does it involve?
Depending on the species of plant, the tree assessment report will vary slightly. However, the arborist will thoroughly examine the woody shrub, paying particular attention to the roots, trunk and crown. This is done to check for disease or any other issues that may impact the plant’s structure. Insects can also become harmful to many woody plants, so arborists will often look for an indication of bugs that could cause serious damage to the shrub. Often, arborists will undertake internal structural testing on the plant, this is done to get a better understanding of the structural strength and health. These results will determine what steps the arborist takes next. The final outcome of the inspection will be beneficial when it comes to deciding upon the best approach if the plant is considered at risk. Remember, the arborist is a professional, so it is always recommended that you take their advice.
How do I get one done?
There are many arborists in all areas of Australia, so the best place to start is by looking for local companies that provide woody shrub services. Look online, or ask people you know for recommendations. Once you have contacted a company, ask for a tree assessment report, and tell them how many plants you want looked at, and what species they are. It is often best to get several quotes from different companies before choosing one.
It can be easy to forget about plants on your land as you walk past them every day, but like any other living thing, they sometimes need care too. So next time you go outside, have a look at the plants in your garden and see if they look healthy or if they have dead limbs. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so don’t be shy about contacting an arborist!