When's a good time to contact an arborist to evaluate a tree?

Question

I have a large maple with a bit of a split in it, along with large portions that broke off (one dead part) this summer. It's important to the property, and this fall I've been meaning to get in touch with a certified arborist to come take a look; to tell me what's going to happen to it, and if he can, to do whatever's possible to save it. I also have some oaks that died--I was going to ask why.

The nearest arborist (a county away) has a phone number and e-mail listed. I've taken photos of the tree, in the event I'd e-mail initially.

I've been quite busy this fall, however, and haven't had time to get in contact. Now I have the time, but the leaves are nearly all off and it’s 30-degree weather.

Is this something I should wait till spring to do? Or, for the health of the tree, is it advisable to do it ASAP? (i.e., Can arborists can do anything this time of year? Or would he just look at it and schedule any work on it for spring? [Assuming he even makes visits now.])

Thanks.

I have photos of the tree from this spring, summer, and fall. That includes photos before and after the parts broke off; also photos of the exposed cross-section of the dead part that came off, in the event that would help identify any disease.

Answer 1

While the leaves are important, an arborist can still do a reasonable evaluation without leaves. Primarily he/she will be looking at the growth record over the last few years as seen in the branches, he/she will be able to determine living from dead wood, the degree of injury from the split, any diseased areas such as cankers, signs of bark insect activity, trunk flare, etc etc. Yes, the leaves would be a great help in determining nutrients being taken up and well as canopy density, but they are not the only item an arborist will examine. Indeed, being leafless may help in certain examinatons. Go ahead and call. Having the photos are a great help. Remember you want to call a certified arborist such as with ISA or NAA.....they'll know what you are talking about (International Society of Aboriculture or National Arborists Assoc) It should appear in their telephone book ad as well as on their vehicle when they arrive and business car. .

Answer 2

Tomorrow sounds like a good time, if you want to save the tree. It sounds serious, possibly terminal, especially with the other trees. Either drought-on-storm death or black heart disease or borers or who-knows-what. Shedding bark is kind of like leprosy - if your fingers are dropping off, you should dial the doctor with yout toes, pretty fast.

Answer 3

Best is before any leaves are dropped.

You can call your Arborist, and set an appointment and they can give you the idea.

Answer 4

NOW