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Tree Surgeon vs. Arborist: Key Differences Explained

Tree Surgeon vs. Arborist: Key Differences Explained

Do you need professional tree services? If so, there are two types of professionals: tree surgeons and arborists.…

Mar 05,2025

Do you need professional tree services? If so, there are two types of professionals: tree surgeons and arborists. While most people use these terms interchangeably, they are different. At Sesmas Tree Service, we provide pertinent information to help you choose the right tree service provider in Alpharetta, GA for your needs. The last thing you want is to hire a tree surgeon to handle the services arborists provide and vice versa. Let’s delve into the differences between both professions to help you make informed decisions.

Tree Surgeon vs. Arborist: Key Differences Explained

Who is an Arborist?

When looking for a tree care company, knowing who and what an arborist does is crucial. Also known as tree doctors, they study the symptoms of diseases, diagnose the condition, and provide a suitable treatment plan. Since property owners rarely understand the ecology of trees and their relationship to the environment, certified arborists can provide pertinent information on tree planting, soil conditions, and other vital factors concerning the environment.

Some of the responsibilities arborists have include recommending trees for planting, assessing soil type and pH, diagnosing health issues, routine inspections, and tree removal among others. Another significant difference between arborists and tree surgeons is their qualifications. Arborists receive certification from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), setting the gold standard for tree service providers globally.

Our Services

Storm Damage Cleanup Storm Damage Cleanup

Storm Damage Cleanup

Storms can leave behind broken limbs, split trunks, and fallen trees that block access and threaten nearby structures. In those moments,…

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Arborist Services Arborist Services

Arborist Services

Your Trusted Local Arborists in The Metro Atlanta Trees are a lot more than a trunk, some branches,…

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Emergency Tree Services Emergency Tree Services

Emergency Tree Services

That inanimate tree standing outside on your lawn may seem harmless, but it can surely cause a lot of damage. There…

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Tree Risk Assessment Tree Risk Assessment

Tree Risk Assessment

Tree risk assessment is essentially when a professional arborist analyzes a tree and concludes just how much of a risk it…

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Tree Removal Tree Removal

Tree Removal

The reasons for tree removal vary quite a bit. Perhaps you've moved into a new home and want to get…

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Land Clearing & Forestry Mulching Land Clearing & Forestry Mulching

Land Clearing & Forestry Mulching

Not every tree removal business can handle large-scale site clearing and site preparation projects like Sesmas Tree Service can. We…

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Stump Grinding Stump Grinding

Stump Grinding

So, you have had a tree removed or you plan on removing a tree. What do you do about the stump?…

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Tree Trimming Tree Trimming

Tree Trimming

Are you looking for a reliable tree company for tree trimming or pruning? Sesmas Tree Service offers expert residential and…

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What Is an ISA Certified Arborist?

Arborists qualify for an ISA certification after completing an accredited arboriculture training program and three years of working experience. The exam covers all the crucial aspects, such as nutrition, tree biology, cabling and bracing systems, and risk assessment. While there are many tree service providers on the market, choosing an ISA-certified arborist goes a long way to ensure quality services without breaking the bank. After certification, arborists should complete three years of field training to ensure they are updated on the latest trends in tree care and maintenance.

What Is a Tree Surgeon?

After arborists diagnose trees and devise a wellness plan, tree surgeons carry out the treatment to restore health and vitality. A professional surgeon can perform complex tasks such as tree removal trimming, and pruning accurately and safely, giving you peace of mind throughout the process. Since many factors can go wrong, precision and extensive training are vital to ensure surgeons carry out their duties effectively.

Some of the responsibilities of tree surgeons include debris and tree removal after a storm, stump grinding, trimming and pruning, pest control, disease management, and soil improvements. If you need any of these services, consult a reputable tree surgeon.

Tree Surgeon Qualifications

Although tree surgeons don’t require a lot of credentials as arborists, not everyone can be a tree surgeon. Tree surgeons must know the different methods for different tree services, safety protocols, and equipment handling to tackle tree care effectively. It is advisable to hire seasoned tree surgeons with extensive training for peace of mind knowing your landscaping needs are handled professionally.

Customer Reviews

3 large Leyland Cypress trees removed near front of our home. Excellent service, professional crew, very competitive pricing for superior work! Rolando provided the initial estimate and the  follow up and was the best in terms of customer relations. I'd both use this company again AND highly recommend them.

Susan Hitchcock

This is the 2nd time we have used Sesmas Tree Service. They are a wonderful company to deal with. They were on time, professional, and very thorough. They cleaned up prior to leaving and went out of their way to protect our plants and landscaping. And they kept to their proposal with no hidden cost or add ons. Definitely a five star experience!

Gene McFadden

Wow!  I deal with tree services in my professional work and I can honestly say Sesmas is by far the most professional, best equipped, efficient, safety conscious, and communicative service I've ever encountered.  Their price was very reasonable and they even went so far as to include additional work without increasing the price.  Call them!  Now! They are very quick to respond.

Scott McLendon

We've used Sesmas several times and have always received excellent service.  Estimates are quick and easy and the crew is efficient and leaves the property clean of debris.  Recently we needed a tree removed next to a heavily landscaped area.  Sebastian went over everything with me in detail and listened to my concerns.  The crew did an excellent job in removing the tree with minimal disturbance to the surrounding area.  We are pleased and will consider them again in the future for pruning and tree removal.

Tonia Griswold

Sesmas Tree Service was amazing! I had two dead trees cut and a lot of trees that were already down on my property removed. Sebastian came out and sent the quote in writing within 24 hours. We were in the process of scheduling the service when a slot opened up sooner snd I was able to go ahead and get the work done. Everything was explained ahead of time for what to expect. The crew was very efficient and professional.  All of the work and cleanup was done in one day. I would recommend Sesmas for your tree cutting/cleanup needs.

LaDora Woods

I hired Sesmas to cut down a very tricky tree that was hanging over my house as well as a few large limbs. They did a great job and had the machinery to get the job done right.

Perry Hartman

Great experience with Sesmas. They were meticulous with my tree removal, safe and efficient. David’s communication throughout the process was much appreciated. Highly recommend!

Lindsay Ellenburg

Great experience with Sesmas Tree Service. The arborist who came out was a Board Certified Master Arborist, and you could immediately tell he knew his stuff. He took the time to explain what needed to be done, gave us clear options, and helped us feel confident from start to finish. The whole process was easy and professional. We’ll definitely use them again.

Ed Martin

The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Arborist and Tree Surgeon

Hiring an arborist and tree surgeon is essential for maintaining the health, safety, and beauty of your trees. These professionals have specialized knowledge in tree care, ensuring that trees receive proper pruning, disease management, and maintenance to promote longevity. Without expert care, trees can become hazardous due to weakened branches, disease, or structural instability, posing risks to property and people.

Arborists and tree surgeons are trained to assess tree health and determine the best course of action, whether it’s pruning, pest control, or removal. They use specialized equipment and techniques to safely trim or remove trees, preventing potential damage from falling limbs. Additionally, they can diagnose and treat tree diseases, helping to preserve greenery and maintain ecological balance.

Another significant advantage of hiring an arborist is compliance with local regulations. Many municipalities have strict tree preservation laws, and an arborist ensures that tree work is done legally and sustainably.

Call a Tree Care Company

Whether you need the expertise of a tree surgeon or arborist, Sesmas Tree Service is the go-to service provider. We have a highly trained team ready to inspect, diagnose, and address underlying tree issues before things get out of hand.

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