Many people still ask us: “What does a tree surgeon do?” – so in this article we aim to cover everything you need to know about our range of skills and services.
Let’s start with a brief overview: tree surgery involves far more than simply pruning overgrown trees. Over the years, the profession has developed into a highly skilled, safety-critical role requiring specialist knowledge, technical qualifications and hands-on experience.
Here at Branching Out Tree and Garden Services, our work focuses on the preservation and safe management of trees. We work in private gardens, public spaces and commercial sites across the North Herts and Bedfordshire region.
So what exactly do we do?
Tree surgeon definition
A tree surgeon, also known as an arborist, is a trained professional who specialises in the maintenance of trees. Their work ensures that trees remain healthy, aesthetically pleasing and safe for the surrounding environment – including people and nearby properties. In order to work responsibly with trees, tree surgeons must understand how trees grow and respond to local environmental conditions.
Key responsibilities of a tree surgeon
So what does a tree surgeon do? The role of a tree surgeon is expanding all the time, but they all carry out a range of common tasks, including:
- Tree pruning: this involves more than cutting branches – it’s about the right cuts to encourage healthy growth, improve tree structure and remove deadwood.
- Tree removal: when a tree is dead, diseased or unsuitable for its location, tree surgeons safely dismantle it using specialist equipment and rigging techniques.
- Health assessment: tree surgeons check for signs of disease and decay, so they can recommend whether a tree can be treated or needs removal.
- Stump grinding: after a tree is removed, the stump may need to be ground down to allow replanting or prevent regrowth.
- Emergency call-outs: storm damage, fallen trees and sudden hazards often require urgent, skilled responses to keep people and property safe.
Tree surgeon qualifications
In the UK, tree surgery is a regulated and safety-critical profession, so you need to check for the qualifications:
- NPTC/LANTRA certificates to ensure safe use of chainsaws and cutting techniques.
- Aerial tree climbing and rescue certification for working at height using ropes.
- Training in other machinery such as wood chippers, stump grinders and aerial platforms.
- First aid and forestry emergency training.
Here at Branching Out, we aim for the highest industry standards and hold ARB Approved Contractor status – proving that we have been independently assessed for quality, safety and professionalism.
Other personal skills also contribute to being a successful tree surgeon, such as confidence in working at height, physical strength and coordination, problem-solving, risk awareness, teamwork, communication and a deep interest in nature and the environment.
Why hire a professional tree surgeon?
We recommend against taking the DIY approach to tree care. Tree surgery usually involves using dangerous equipment, working at height, moving heavy branches and pruning trees close to buildings, roads and power lines. Making mistakes when undertaking DIY tree work can lead to serious injury, property damage and harm to the tree itself.
Professional contractors ensure that every job is carried out safely, legally and to industry standards, supported by comprehensive insurance and risk assessments.
Summary: What does a tree surgeon do?
Hopefully, we have answered the question: what does a tree surgeon do? As you have read, tree surgeons don’t just trim trees and hedges, they play a vital role in maintaining healthy and safe gardens and landscapes. Their work combines technical skill, environmental knowledge and practical experience – all backed by rigorous safety training.
At Branching Out Tree and Garden Services, we’re proud to deliver expert tree care across the North Herts and Beds region. If you need advice or a tree assessment, talk to a member of our team today.