Looking for some books...

[D&B Mack]

I am just getting into tree indentification and arborist type work more. I don't intend on becoming an arborist by any means. I plan on hiring a professional for that work when needed. However, I do like to educate myself on subjects as much as possible. I was wondering if anyone knew of (recommendations for) any good reading material for tree identification and tree care/trimming.

Thanks,

Brian

 

[Tree Pig]

try this link

http://wesspur.com/books/shigo_books.html

Any of the Shigo books are good information. Im just finishing the Pirrones Tree Maintenance 7th edition it was a pretty good book. Im sure some of the more studied people in here can give you a much more in depth list.

 

[groundsmgr]

National audobon book. Tree id.
Mikcheal dirrs Manual guide to woody landscape plants

 

[Tree Pig]

sorry you didnt get more replies apparently no one else here reads

 

[treesquirrel]

Audubon guides are very thorough. Also, often times you can find books focused on your geographic location in a bookstore.

 

[S Mc]

sorry you didnt get more replies apparently no one else here reads

Give us a break. Some of us don't visit the commercial forum as often as other forums.

Michael Dirr's book is considered one of the best on descriptions of trees and plants. And although I use it all the time, IMHO, it is not necessarily the best for field ID. So it depends on what you mean by "tree identification". If you are looking for a good field book, then the Audobon Society field Guide to North American trees, specific to your region, is much better. If you are looking for a comprehensive book for suggestions, then Dirr's book is much better.

I have been told from a person who lives outside the United States that they liked Guy Sternberg's "Native Trees for North American Landscapes" as "more readable" than others. But I have not read this book. I personally have 7 or 8 tree identification books because you cannot find them all in one text.

You know what I would recommend if you want a general introductory overview on all aspects arboriculture is the Arborist's Certification Study Guide available through ISA. It would give you basic information on all aspects and has further references suggested that you could then pursue on specific areas as you wish.

Sylvia

 

[rydnruff]

I keep the tree fan in my glove box. its a silly little 2" wide book with the leaves of each tree on the top and opens up like a fan. it does not have all the trees in it but it has most that you would find in an urban setting. i bought it from the show in baltimore from the tci booth i believe for 8 bucks.

 

[treevet]

I keep the tree fan in my glove box. its a silly little 2" wide book with the leaves of each tree on the top and opens up like a fan. it does not have all the trees in it but it has most that you would find in an urban setting. i bought it from the show in baltimore from the tci booth i believe for 8 bucks.

I have that book and at least a twenty more tree ID books. If the client tells you what kind of tree they have you are at a distinct disadvantage. I also have both Dirr books...Manual of Woody Landscape Plantsand Hardy Trees and Shrubs. One of my favorite ID books is Botanica's Trees and Shrubs publ. by Laurel Glen. Beautiful book. The ID books all have extensive info about trees. lAs mentioned the best probably are local ones for your specific area or zone.

As for comprehensive information you can't go wrong with the Shigo collection that is discounted in bulk. Shigo Trees and Associates for the search and contact Judy Shigo. Start reading Tree Basics and before you prune read his book on pruning.

I love tree books and have maybe a hundred of them from old to new. Have a few treehouse coffeetable books that are a novelty.