Tree services and landscaping play a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing the beauty of outdoor spaces. While there are overlaps, the primary functions, expertise and tools of both are different. Let’s explore the differences between landscaping and tree services.
Primary focus and expertise
Tree Service: This service is primarily focused on the removal, maintenance and care of trees. Arborists are professionals in the tree industry who have been trained to deal with tree diseases, pest problems, tree trimming, pruning and removal. They are experts in the study of tree biology, growth patterns and health.
Landscaping service: Landscape encompasses an broader scope for outdoor property enhancements and maintenance. This includes lawn maintenance, flower and plant cultivation, garden design and installation, as well as general upkeep and aesthetics of the property’s exterior.
Tools and Equipment
Tree Service: Equipment is designed for tasks involving trees. Chainsaws, wood chippers and aerial lifts are among the equipment.
Landscaping service: Landscapers utilize a wide range of tools for different tasks, including lawnmowers, hedge trimmers and shovels. Landscapers may use design software to plan and visualize the layout of their landscape.
Training and Certification
Tree Service: Arborists undergo special training to better understand trees and their biology. The International Society of Arboriculture’s (ISA) certifications attest to the arborists’ expertise.
Landscape Service: Many landscapers are trained in horticulture and landscape design. Others gain their expertise through work experience. Local horticultural or landscaping associations may offer certifications.
Services Offered
Tree Service
Tree Removal
Trimming and pruning
Grinding or removal of a stump
Tree health assessment
Pest and disease management
Landscaping Service
Lawn maintenance and mowing
Garden design and planting
Installing outdoor features such as patios, pathways or water features
Mulching, soil conditioning, and fertilization
General yard cleanup
Emergency Response
Tree Service: Many companies that offer tree services provide emergency services. This is especially true when trees are in immediate danger due to severe weather, disease, or structural weakness.
Tree companies offer emergency service, but landscaping services do not.
While tree services are primarily focused on the health and care of trees, landscape services offer a more holistic approach to outdoor aesthetics by incorporating plants and lawn care as well as architectural features. Due to the overlap of outdoor care, it’s not uncommon for businesses to offer both services. Always ensure the professional that you hire has the necessary expertise and tools to complete the job, regardless of whether they are a landscaper or tree service.
This post was written by a professional arborist at Arbor Wise Professional Tree Care. Robert Miller is the owner of Arbor Wise Professional Tree Care, a locally owned and operated tree service company that offers superb lawn care by the most experienced Arborists. Arborwise Tree Services is a tree removal company that offers stump removal, tree pruning, stump grinding, fertilization, and tree restoration. We have an extraordinary lawn care industry notoriety covering the Pinellas county area.
