Common Questions

Colorado Arborist Association’s FAQ section answers common questions about arboriculture careers, training opportunities, and best practices for tree care.

Tree Pruning

The ideal pruning time depends on the tree species:

  • Deciduous Trees – Best pruned in late winter to early spring.
  • Conifers – Summer pruning is recommended.

General Tree Care Fact Sheet

Tree Services

Tree removal involves cutting down a tree due to disease, damage, or safety concerns.

Tree planting is the process of selecting and planting trees to enhance property value, improve air quality, and support ecosystems.

Tree Care & Maintenance

Tree and lawn roots compete for water, oxygen, and nutrients. Removing grass and adding mulch around the base of a tree helps reduce competition and promotes healthier growth.

Yes! Hitting a tree with a mower or weed whacker can strip its bark, causing disease, decay, and even death. Adding mulch around the base helps protect the trunk.

  • Reduces moisture loss & regulates soil temperature
  • Controls weeds & prevents mower damage
  • Improves soil fertility & air circulation for roots

Water slowly and deeply, ensuring moisture reaches 6-12 inches deep. Young trees require more frequent watering, especially in hot weather. A good rule of thumb is 10 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter.

Tree Health & Pests

Mycorrhizae are beneficial fungi that form a symbiotic relationship with tree roots, helping trees absorb more water and nutrients.

This is often part of the tree’s natural shedding cycle. However, excessive needle loss can indicate stress from drought, pests, or disease.

EAB is an invasive insect that kills ash trees by damaging their vascular system. Preventative treatments are necessary before symptoms appear.

Water slowly and deeply, ensuring moisture reaches 6-12 inches deep. Young trees require more frequent watering, especially in hot weather. A good rule of thumb is 10 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter.

EAB Q&A

Tree Trimming Guidelines

  • Maintain the tree’s natural shape
  • Remove dead, diseased, or weak branches
  • Provide clearance for sidewalks, buildings, and power lines
  • Remove dead or weak branches up to 10-30 feet high
  • Thin out crowded branches for better air circulation
  • Remove suckers from the tree base
  • Trim dead, damaged, or hazardous branches
  • Ensure 13’6” street clearance and 8’ sidewalk clearance

Hiring a Tree Care Professional

When hiring a tree care company, look for:

  • Certified Arborists – Make sure they are a Journey Man Arborist, if not Journey man make sure they are certified Local, State organizations
  • Insurance & Licensing – Confirm they carry liability and workers' compensation insurance.
  • Experience & Reputation – Check online reviews, references, and past work.
  • Written Estimates – Get detailed, written estimates before agreeing to services.
  • Proper Equipment & Safety Protocols

There are multiple levels of arborist credentials based on experience, training, and certification:

  • Arborist Apprentice (DOL) – Entry-level worker learning tree care skills through on-the-job training and coursework.
  • Certified Tree Worker Climber Specialist (ISA) – Specializes in tree climbing, pruning, and removal.
  • Tree Risk Assessment Qualified (TRAQ - ISA) – Trained in assessing and mitigating tree risks.
  • Certified Arborist (ISA) – Has at least three years of experience or a degree in arboriculture and adheres to professional ethics.
  • Journeyman Arborist (DOL) – Experienced arborist with 5,440 hours of training in all areas of tree care.
  • Member Arborist (ASCA) – Skilled in advanced tree care techniques, consulting, and expert witness services.
  • Board Certified Master Arborist (ISA) – The highest ISA certification, recognizing top industry professionals.
  • Registered Consulting Arborist (ASCA) – Specialized in expert analysis, legal consulting, and forensic tree assessments.

Types of Pesticide Credentials

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Pesticide Credentials in Colorado

There are two primary certifications for pesticide applicators in Colorado:

  • Can mix, load, and apply general and restricted-use pesticides under the supervision of a Qualified Supervisor.
  • Must pass the General Exam and at least one category-specific exam (e.g., Ornamental Pest Control).
  • Can independently apply pesticides, make recommendations, and supervise other applicators.
  • Requires documented experience and passing both the General Exam and a category-specific exam.

Types of Arborists

Soil & Sustainability

Biochar is a charcoal-like substance created by burning organic material (wood, crop waste, or leaves) in a low-oxygen environment. It improves soil health by:

  • Enhancing water retention and nutrient absorption.
  • Reducing soil acidity and increasing microbial activity.
  • Storing carbon helps combat climate change.

To make biochar, organic material is heated in a controlled environment (pyrolysis) until it turns into a stable form of carbon-rich material, which can then be mixed into soil for long-term benefits.

For professional tree care, sustainable practices, and pesticide application guidance, contact CAA today! 🌿 Contact Us

  • Can mix, load, and apply general and restricted-use pesticides under the supervision of a Qualified Supervisor.
  • Must pass the General Exam and at least one category-specific exam (e.g., Ornamental Pest Control).
  • Can independently apply pesticides, make recommendations, and supervise other applicators.
  • Requires documented experience and passing both the General Exam and a category-specific exam.