Whether you’re worried about a leaning tree, planning new landscaping, or just want to keep your property safe, a tree consultation is the best place to start.
A certified arborist can give you a clear picture of your trees’ health, identify risks, and recommend the right care plan — all before problems become expensive or dangerous.
Here’s what typically happens during a professional tree consultation and why it’s worth every homeowner’s time.
1. Why Schedule a Tree Consultation?
Trees are living systems that constantly change with age, weather, and environment.
Regular consultations help you stay ahead of:
- Structural issues or hidden decay
- Diseases and pest infestations
- Storm damage or unstable branches
- Poor soil or root health
- Planning new construction or landscaping
In Ottawa and Eastern Ontario, seasonal weather makes proactive care essential. Ice storms, droughts, and high winds can all stress your trees — a professional checkup ensures they stay strong and safe.
2. What an Arborist Looks For
A certified arborist doesn’t just glance at the tree — they evaluate its entire system: roots, trunk, branches, and canopy.
During the consultation, they’ll typically:
- Examine trunk and branch structure for cracks, cavities, or rot
- Check leaves for discoloration, spots, or pests
- Inspect the root zone for compaction or poor drainage
- Assess proximity to buildings, driveways, or power lines
- Identify tree species and note their common vulnerabilities
They may also use tools such as resistance drills, soil probes, or binoculars to perform a thorough inspection without harming the tree.
3. Discussion of Tree Health and Safety
After the inspection, the arborist explains what they found in clear, practical terms — not just technical jargon.
You’ll learn which trees are healthy, which need maintenance, and which could pose safety risks.
Typical topics covered:
- Structural integrity and storm resistance
- Signs of disease or infestation
- Soil and root conditions
- Growth patterns and clearance from buildings
- Long-term maintenance recommendations
If an issue is urgent (like a dead limb over a roof), you’ll get immediate safety guidance.
4. Personalized Care Recommendations
Every property is different — so your arborist provides a custom care plan based on your landscape’s needs.
This may include:
- Pruning recommendations to improve structure and airflow
- Cabling or bracing for weak branches or co-dominant trunks
- Pest and disease treatments if signs of infection are present
- Soil aeration or fertilization to improve tree health
- Tree planting suggestions for better diversity or shade
Each recommendation comes with an explanation of why it’s needed and what results to expect over time.
5. Detailed Estimate and Work Plan
If follow-up services are recommended, you’ll receive a written estimate that outlines:
- The exact work to be done
- Timeline and scheduling options
- Equipment access requirements
- Cleanup and disposal details
A professional estimate ensures you know the full scope and cost before committing.
6. Education and Prevention Tips
One of the biggest benefits of a tree consultation is knowledge.
A good arborist will show you what to look for between visits so you can catch issues early.
Common tips homeowners learn:
- How to spot early pest activity
- Proper watering and mulching techniques
- When to prune or avoid pruning
- How to reduce soil compaction and root stress
These simple habits go a long way in keeping your landscape healthy between professional visits.
7. When to Schedule a Tree Consultation
Ideally, trees should be inspected once a year — or after major storms.
You should also schedule a consultation when:
- You’re planning to build or renovate near trees
- You’ve noticed leaning, cracking, or thinning foliage
- You want to plant new trees and need help choosing the right species
- You’re unsure whether a tree is diseased or dying
8. Why Hire a Certified Arborist
Not all “tree experts” have proper training. Certified arborists, recognized by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), follow strict safety and care standards.
Certified arborists provide:
- Expert diagnosis based on science, not guesswork
- Safe and ethical pruning and removal practices
- Insurance and compliance with local regulations
- Professional reports for insurance or city permits
At Arboris, our team of ISA Certified Arborists brings years of experience in Eastern Ontario’s specific tree species, soils, and weather patterns.
9. Invest in Your Trees’ Long-Term Health
A tree consultation isn’t just about solving problems — it’s about preventing them.
Regular professional care protects your investment, keeps your property safe, and ensures your trees continue to thrive for generations.
Arboris offers:
- On-site evaluations by certified arborists
- Detailed reports and tailored care plans
- Services across Ottawa, Casselman, Rockland, and surrounding areas
Keep your trees healthy, beautiful, and safe — starting with a professional consultation that gives you peace of mind and expert guidance.