Do Landscaping Companies Do Tree Work in Calgary? What You Need to Know
- Aaron Cull
- 13 hours ago
- 3 min read
Homeowners and property managers in Calgary often assume that their landscaping company can handle everything outdoors, lawns, gardens, patios, and even tree care. But when it comes to managing trees safely and effectively, the lines between landscaping and arboriculture aren’t always clear. So, do landscaping companies take care of trees in Calgary? Let’s break it down.
Landscaping vs. Arboriculture: What's the Difference?
Understanding who does what starts with the basics:
Landscaping Services Typically Include:
Lawn maintenance and irrigation setup
Garden design and flowerbed installation
Decks, patios, fences, and hardscape features
Basic tree planting and mulching
Arboriculture (Tree Care) Includes:
Tree pruning and structural trimming
Tree risk assessments and hazard mitigation
Diagnosing and treating tree diseases or infestations
Cabling, bracing, and storm damage response
Safe tree removal and stump grinding
While both fields work outdoors and may interact with trees, arboriculture is a highly specialized profession that requires formal training and certification, especially for tasks that involve tree health, structural safety, or working at height.
At Evergreen LTD, we not only handle removals and risk assessments, we also offer tree planting, landscaping design, and seasonal maintenance. Whether you need to replace a tree that was lost or create a more functional, beautiful yard, our team combines certified arborist expertise with landscape planning to ensure your outdoor space thrives year-round.
What Tree Work Can Landscaping Companies Legally and Safely Perform?
In Alberta, landscaping companies can handle basic tree maintenance, such as:
Planting new trees
Applying mulch and fertilizer
Watering and general care for young trees
However, when a tree needs pruning near power lines, shows signs of disease, or requires removal due to risk or damage, these are not landscaping tasks. According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and WorkBC, these jobs must be performed by trained arborists, who are equipped to manage the safety risks involved.
Why Arborist Credentials Matter in Calgary
Calgary’s unique environment, with Chinook winds, heavy snow loads, and clay-based soil—adds complexity to tree care. Without proper training, attempting DIY pruning or removal, or hiring an unqualified provider, can result in:
Injury or property damage
Permanent tree health issues
Liability concerns, especially in public or commercial areas
Certified arborists follow standards like ANSI A300, which cover everything from proper pruning cuts to worker safety. Evergreen LTD’s team of ISA-certified arborists ensures compliance with these industry best practices on every job.
Common Misconceptions: Setting the Record Straight
"My landscaper can prune my trees." Only for very small trees or light shaping. Anything involving ladder work, power tools, or limb removal near structures should be done by a certified arborist.
"Tree removal is part of landscaping." Only if the tree is small and unobstructed. Larger tree removals require arborist assessment, rigging, and sometimes permits, especially in Calgary.
"I can save money by having one company do it all." Bundling can seem efficient, but hiring a landscaper to perform arborist-level tasks can lead to safety violations, poor outcomes, or higher costs down the road.
How to Protect Your Property and Trees
If you’re managing a property in Calgary and need tree services, follow these steps:
Ask for credentials: Ensure anyone doing major tree work is ISA-certified.
Understand the scope: Know what your landscaping contract covers, and what it doesn’t.
Check for insurance: Tree care companies should carry liability and worker safety coverage.
Get a tree risk assessment: Especially if you have large, aging, or storm-damaged trees.
Have questions about your trees? Reach out to Evergreen LTD for a consultation.
When to Call Evergreen LTD
Whether you're a homeowner, landlord, or commercial property manager in Calgary, don’t leave your tree care to guesswork. Evergreen LTD specializes in all aspects of arboriculture, from pruning and risk assessments to emergency removals and disease management. We work alongside landscaping companies or independently to ensure your trees are safe, healthy, and properly maintained.
Contact Evergreen LTD today for professional tree care in Calgary. Our ISA-certified arborists are ready to help with assessments, maintenance, or urgent service.
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