FREE Certified Arborist Installation and Establishment Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following describes a benefit of the trees that nurseries sell as bare roots?

Accepted Answer

Bare-root trees have all of these advantages.

Answer

Bare-root trees offer several advantages for planting. They are typically smaller and lighter, making them easier to transport and handle. Their exposed root systems allow for thorough inspection and correction of circling roots before planting, and they are generally less expensive than balled and burlapped or containerized stock.

Question 2

How do you begin training a young tree?

Accepted Answer

By cutting off any damaged or dead branches.

Answer

The initial step in training a young tree should always be to remove any damaged, dead, or diseased branches. This foundational pruning helps the tree direct its energy towards healthy growth, prevents the spread of disease, and establishes a strong, sound structure from the outset. Once this is done, decisions about scaffold branches and overall structure can follow.

Question 3

What is the term used to describe groups of different plants that require approximately the same amount of water?

Accepted Answer

Hydrozones

Answer

Hydrozones are groups of plants with similar water requirements that are planted together. This practice is a key component of xeriscaping, or water-efficient landscaping, as it allows for more precise and efficient irrigation. By grouping plants with similar needs, water can be applied effectively without over- or under-watering different species.

Question 4

For recently planted trees, what kind of fertilizer is recommended?

Accepted Answer

Slow-release nitrogen fertilizer

Answer

For recently planted trees, a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer is generally recommended. This type of fertilizer provides nutrients gradually over time, supporting steady root establishment and moderate shoot growth without causing a sudden flush of tender new growth that can be susceptible to stress. Excessive quick-release nitrogen can burn new roots or promote too much top growth before roots are established.

Question 5

Why is it not a good idea to use gravel to fill the bottom of the hole when planting a large tree?

Accepted Answer

There’s a possibility that the soil can get overly saturated.

Answer

Using gravel at the bottom of a planting hole is not recommended because it can create a 'perched water table' effect. Instead of improving drainage, the gravel layer can actually impede water movement from the finer-textured soil above it, leading to water accumulation and saturation in the root zone, which can suffocate roots. Water will only drain from the soil into the gravel once the soil above is completely saturated.

Certified Arborist Test Practice Test

Certified Arborist Test Practice Test

FREE Certified Arborist Installation and Establishment Questions and Answers