Brende & Lamb 's
Consumer Guide to Tree & Shrub Care

Why Hire an Arborist
An arborist is a specialist in the care of individual trees. Arborists are knowledgeable about the needs of trees, and are trained and equipped to provide proper care. Hiring an arborist is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Proper tree care is an investment which can lead to substantial returns. Well-cared-fortrees are attractive and can add considerable value to your property. Poorly maintained trees can be a significant liability. Pruning or removing trees, especially large trees, can be dangerous work. Tree workshould only be done by those trained and equipped to work safely in trees. Certified Arborist List
For more information, please visit the International Society of Arboriculture.
Recognizing Tree Hazards
Trees provide significant benefits to our homes and cities, but when trees fall and injure people or damage property, they are liabilities. Taking care of tree hazards makes your property safer and prolongs the life of the tree.
Why Topping Hurts Trees
Topping is perhaps the most harmful tree pruning practice known. Yet despite more than 25 years of literature and seminars explaining its harmful effects, topping remains a common practice. This brochure explains why topping is not an acceptable pruning technique, and offers some better alternatives.
Pruning Young Trees
Proper pruning is essential in developing a tree with a strong structure and desirable form. Trees that receive the appropriate pruning measures while they are young will require little corrective pruning when they mature.
Pruning Mature Trees
Pruning is the most common tree maintenance procedure. Although forest trees grow quite well with only nature's pruning, landscape trees require a higher level of care to maintain their safety and aesthetics. Pruning should be done with an understanding of how the tree responds to each cut. Improper pruning can cause damage that will last for the life of the tree, or worse, shorten the tree's life.
Additional Information from the International Society of Arboriculture
http://www.isa-arbor.com/consumer/consumer.html

Brende & Lamb Tree & Shrub Care
739 Dwight Way
Berkeley, CA 94710
510/486-TREE (8733) voice
510/486-0385 fax
email: brendelamb@brendelamb.com