What Certified Arborists See That You Might Miss

June 27, 2025

Protect Your Property with Professional Tree Care

Trees can be one of the most beautiful and valuable features on your property—but they also require expert care. While most homeowners can spot a clearly dead tree or a broken limb after a storm, many of the early warning signs of trouble go unnoticed until it is too late.


That is where a certified arborist comes in. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, our team includes trained professionals who understand not only the biology of trees, but also the structural, environmental, and safety risks they may pose—especially during the fast-growing summer months.

Here is what certified arborists are trained to look for that most people miss:

1. Subtle Signs of Disease

Fungal infections, insect infestations, and internal decay often begin deep inside the trunk or below the bark. Symptoms like leaf discoloration or minor trunk cracks might seem harmless, but to a trained eye, they could point to systemic disease. Arborists can distinguish between normal seasonal changes and early indicators of serious issues, allowing for timely intervention before the tree becomes a hazard.


2. Structural Weaknesses

A tree can appear healthy while hiding major structural flaws. Arborists assess the integrity of trunks, branches, and root systems. They look for co-dominant stems (when two main trunks grow from a single point), including bark, and stress cracks—flaws that can make a tree more likely to fail in high winds or heavy storms.


Our team uses both visual inspection and tactile tests to identify limbs or trunks under tension or at risk of failure, especially after strong weather or long dry spells.

3. Risk to People, Homes, and Infrastructure

Certified arborists are trained in risk assessment standards that go beyond aesthetics. They evaluate how close branches are to homes, roofs, vehicles, utility lines, sidewalks, and other structures. What may seem like a nicely shaded porch to a homeowner might represent a serious liability in the event of limb drop or root upheaval.


We also look underground. Shifting soil, exposed roots, or subtle lean angles can signal a tree’s declining stability. Left unaddressed, these issues may lead to costly damage or even personal injury.


4. Pruning Opportunities That Promote Long-Term Health

A quick DIY trim might seem sufficient, but incorrect pruning can do more harm than good. Arborists know when and how to remove specific limbs to encourage balanced growth, reduce wind resistance, and improve airflow through the canopy. This kind of proactive maintenance can extend a tree’s life by decades while making it safer and more attractive.

5. Tree Species Behavior

Different species have different vulnerabilities. Some trees are highly susceptible to storm damage, while others are prone to root rot or pest infestations in certain soil conditions. Our arborists take these factors into account, tailoring care plans to your property’s specific mix of trees and environmental factors.


Why Certification Matters

Not all tree services are created equal. Certification means your arborist has been trained and tested in best practices for tree care and risk management. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, every job is overseen by a certified arborist who is committed to safety, health, and precision.


We do not guess—we diagnose, recommend, and execute with professionalism and care.

Schedule a Professional Tree Assessment

The best time to identify a problem is before it becomes one. If you have mature trees on your property—or if you are unsure about the health or safety of a particular tree—schedule an evaluation with Midwest Tree Surgeons.


We will walk your property, assess your trees, and give you a clear, honest overview of what you are dealing with. Whether it is pruning, removal, or just peace of mind, we are here to help you protect your home and the natural beauty that surrounds it.

The Environmental Benefits of Professional Tree Care

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Trees are among the most valuable natural resources in our communities. They provide shade, improve air quality, and support wildlife. Yet many homeowners overlook the importance of professional tree care in preserving these benefits. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we believe that taking care of trees is not only about maintaining curb appeal or preventing hazards, but also about protecting the environment. Professional tree care contributes directly to healthier ecosystems and a more sustainable future.

Tree Preservation vs Tree Removal: Knowing When to Choose Each Option

August 29, 2025
Trees bring beauty, shade, and value to any property, but they also require careful attention to ensure they remain safe and healthy. Homeowners often face a difficult choice when a tree begins to show signs of stress or decline: should it be preserved, or is removal the safer and more responsible decision? At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we believe that every tree deserves thoughtful evaluation before action is taken. Here is what you should know about deciding between preservation and removal.

Tree Pruning Myths That Could Harm Your Landscape

August 20, 2025
Pruning is one of the most important aspects of tree care. When done correctly, it improves the health, safety, and appearance of your trees. However, when done poorly or based on incorrect assumptions, it can cause lasting damage. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we often encounter homeowners who have heard common myths about pruning that could put their trees at risk. By understanding these misconceptions, you can make better choices for your landscape.

The Difference Between Deadwood Pruning and Canopy Reduction

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Not All Tree Trimming Is the Same At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we often hear clients use the terms “pruning” and “trimming” as if they mean the same thing. While both involve removing branches from a tree, the purpose, timing, and results of different pruning techniques can vary significantly. Two of the most common approaches we use are deadwood pruning and canopy reduction. These services are not interchangeable, and knowing the difference can help you decide what your trees need to remain healthy, safe, and visually appealing.

How to Prepare Trees for Heavy Snowfall Before Winter Hits

August 7, 2025
Don’t Wait for a Fall As Midwest winters approach, homeowners face the annual challenge of protecting their property from extreme weather. While much attention is paid to snow removal and roof maintenance, trees often go overlooked until a limb crashes down or an entire tree topples under the weight of snow and ice. Proper tree preparation is essential not only for the health of your landscape but also for the safety of your home and family. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we believe proactive care is the best strategy for protecting your trees and avoiding costly damage during the winter months. Here is what you need to know.

How Tree Roots Can Affect Your Foundation and Plumbing

August 1, 2025
Protecting Your Property from Underground Damage Trees offer countless benefits: shade, privacy, curb appeal, and cleaner air. But when their roots grow unchecked, they can also become a costly threat to your property. For homeowners in the Midwest, root systems from mature or poorly placed trees can lead to serious damage below ground. Foundations can crack. Pipes can rupture. And what starts as a small root intrusion can quickly grow into a major headache. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we understand both the value of mature trees and the importance of protecting your home. Here is what you need to know about invasive roots and how to address them before they cause long-term damage.

How Invasive Plant Species Threaten Native Midwest Forests

July 23, 2025
Protecting the Midwest Landscape The trees that define the Midwest landscape (oaks, maples, elms, and more) are essential to the health of local ecosystems . They provide shade, support wildlife, and help maintain soil and air quality. But these natural systems are increasingly threatened by invasive plant species that crowd out native growth and disrupt the balance of the environment. Unlike native species, invasive plants are introduced from outside ecosystems and tend to grow rapidly, reproduce aggressively, and outcompete native plants for resources. Without natural predators or environmental checks, these plants spread quickly and can overtake entire landscapes if left unmanaged. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we help property owners and land managers identify and remove these harmful species before they do lasting damage. Understanding the problem is the first step toward protecting your trees and your land.

Why Summer Storms Can Be a Threat to Weak Trees

July 16, 2025
 How to Protect Your Property This Summer Midwestern summers are known for their beauty: long sunny days, lush greenery, and warm evenings. But they also bring a regular cycle of heavy storms. Thunderstorms, high winds, and saturated ground can wreak havoc on vulnerable trees, creating serious safety hazards and costly property damage. For homeowners and property managers, understanding how storm conditions interact with tree health is essential. The good news is that most storm-related tree failures are preventable with proactive care and inspection. This article will explore why weak trees are especially at risk during summer storms and how working with a certified arborist can help safeguard your property.

What Does It Mean to Be a Certified Arborist?

July 11, 2025
 Expert Tree Care Starts Here When it comes to tree care, not all professionals are created equal. A chainsaw and a truck do not make someone qualified to assess the health, safety, and structure of a tree. That distinction belongs to certified arborists—tree care specialists who are trained, tested, and held to rigorous professional standards. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we take pride in providing expert tree care delivered by certified professionals. But what exactly does “certified arborist” mean? And why should it matter to homeowners and property managers? Let’s take a closer look at what this credential entails and why it’s a crucial factor in responsible, long-term tree care.

Tree Removal Isn’t a DIY Job: Here’s Why

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The Hidden Dangers of Cutting Down Your Own Tree Cutting down a tree might seem like a straightforward task—especially with online videos making it look simple—but in reality, it’s one of the most dangerous jobs you can attempt on your property. At Midwest Tree Surgeons, we routinely get called in to finish or fix failed DIY removals, and the risk is rarely worth the gamble. This article will walk through the dangers of DIY tree removal, the specialized knowledge required to do it safely, and why hiring a certified arborist is the right move for protecting your property and your safety.
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