Question 1

Do you offer free estimates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer free estimates, but only after an on-site visit. Click the link below to schedule yours today!

Question 2

Can I receive an estimate over the phone or via email?

Accepted Answer

No, unfortunately our sales arborists cannot provide accurate cost estimates without first seeing the tree(s) in person.  Photographs rarely do size and scale justice.  Additionally, there are a number of outside factors that need to be considered, such as tree health condition, fences, gates, utility services, equipment access, landscaping obstructions, paved and unpaved surfaces, proximity to structures, etc.
By performing an on-site consultation, our sales arborists can ensure the job is priced in the most economic way possible without having unexpected costs arise during the course of the project.
Click the link below to schedule your free estimate today!

Question 3

Do I need to be home when my on-site visit is scheduled?

Accepted Answer

While we would prefer to meet our clients in-person to begin our relationship, it is not necessary that you be present during our visit, so long as we have permission to egress the property.  Please make considerations for locked gates and pets before booking your appointment.
Click the link below to schedule your free estimate today!

Question 4

How much will my tree work cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing for tree work varies widely based on a number of factors including: scope of work, species and condition of tree, equipment access, utility locations, landscape obstructions, etc. 
 Our pledge to you is to offer the highest quality work at the most reasonable cost, providing the best value for your hard-earned dollars.  We provide a no-strings-attached free estimate with no pushy sales tactics. Let us earn your business.
Click the link below to schedule your free estimate today!

Question 5

What should I consider when hiring a tree service?

Accepted Answer

We believe an informed consumer is our ideal client. Below is a list of considerations when choosing a tree service:

Credentials - Professional credentials display a commitment to one's trade. Credentials such as ISA Certified Arborist, ISA Board Certified Master Arborist, TCIA Certified Treecare Safety Professional, ASCA Registered Consulting Arborist, amongst others are earned based on examinations of industry knowledge, years of documented work experience, and sworn adherence to a strict code of ethics. Maintaining these credentials entails mandatory continuing education and a substantial time and monetary commitment.

Insurance - A general liability insurance policy that explicitly covers aerial tree work should be made readily available upon request.  Client's may even request a Certificate of Insurance with the property owner listed as the Additional Insured.

Reputation - If a tree service has a history of less-than-satisfactory performance for customers, those customers will be quick to leave negative reviews online.  Check Google and social media platforms to verify work history.

Safety - Tree work is inherently hazardous and companies must make a commitment to safe work practices.  All workers on site must wear proper personal protective equipment to include at minimum: head, eye, ear, and face protection.  Workers operating aerial lifts and tree climbers must wear appropriate fall protection equipment.  Safety is non-negotiable.

Click the link below to schedule a free estimate with one of our professional arborists!

Question 6

What is Emerald Ash Borer and should I be concerned about it?

Accepted Answer

Emerald Ash Borer is an invasive beetle from Asia the targets and destroys North American Ash trees.
Yes, concern is warranted if you have an Ash tree on your property.  EAB has been decimating the Ash population throughout the United States since 2002, was found in southern Missouri in 2023 and northwest Arkansas in 2024.  Once a tree is infested, its typically is dead within 2-4 years.  Preventative pesticide applications are the only effective measure to save your Ash tree.
Click the link below for more information on the spread of Emerald Ash Borer.

Question 7

Do you offer tree "topping"?

Accepted Answer

No, the practice of tree "topping" has been banned in the industry.  Topping is very detrimental to the health and longevity of trees and has even be shown to render the tree hazardous by introducing large pockets of decay.
BUT...
If you goal is to reduce the size of your tree's canopy, that can still be achieved through reduction pruning.
Instead of the indiscriminate cutting that happens during the topping process, reduction pruning removes limbs back to an appropriately sized lateral branch.  This technique still achieves the goal of canopy reduction, while maintaining the health and integrity of the tree, with the additional benefit of being more aesthetically pleasing by maintaining the tree's natural form. 
Click the link below for more information.

Question 8

Does it matter how much mulch I add around my tree?

Accepted Answer

Yes, 2-4 inches of natural wood mulch is optimal over the root zone of trees. 
Proper mulching has many benefits including soil temperature regulation, soil moisture retention, and adding organic material and micronutrients back into the soil.
Improper mulching can retain too much moisture, making the soil anaerobic, inducing root rot.  It is important not to place the mulch against the bark of the tree (in a mulch "volcano") for the same reasons.

Question 9

What can be done for a tree with a crack or split in the trunk?

Accepted Answer

Trees with cracked or split stems should sometimes be removed or other times be mechanically stabilized with cables and braces.
The first step to determining the appropriate course of action is by having our Board Certified Master Arborist complete a tree risk assessment. 
Click the link below to schedule your free estimate today!

Question 10

What is "total" stump grinding and why is it better?

Accepted Answer

A typical stump grind takes the tree stump down 4-6 inches below ground level.  While in some instances this may be sufficient, the remaining wood mass below ground precludes the property owner from several things in the future such as replanting trees in the same space or installing pavement or foundations without first removing the mass.  
At M S Wiekhorst, we subscribe to the philosophy of "do it once; do it right".
Our state-of-the-art stump grinding machine goes all the way down to the bottom of the wood mass, only leaving small, severed roots.
Click the link below to schedule your free estimate today!

Frequently asked questions