Treeseer, I totally respect you. As Alex Shigo says: Tree discussion cannot be an attempt to get the last word. Malpractice is probably defined a thousand ways right here on this wonderful site. An arborist, certified or not, rarely needs to make non-standard cuts. Or perhaps sub standard? I’m relatively new to the forum, TreeSeer, though you, Tom Dunlap and most others seen right on. What do you think might become a catch phrase to connect good arborists with lay folks: Non standard cuts(bad) sub standard cuts(bad) Standard cuts(good), Decisions based on standards and guidelines(good). Spikes, bad. Flush Cuts, bad, stubs, bad, overpruning, bad. Root Zone Cover.
We have to connect with Joe average guy on the huge difference in tree service. I really wouldn’t mind losing a bid if I knew standard work would be done.