Botanist vs. Arborist: What Are the Differences?

If you’re passionate about plants and trees, you may be wondering if a career as a botanist or arborist is right for you. Both of these professions involve the study of plants, but they have different focuses. Botanists typically study all types of plants, while arborists focus specifically on trees. In this article, we compare and contrast these two careers, and we provide information on what you can expect if you choose to pursue either profession.

What is a Botanist?

Botanists study plants and their relationship to their environment. They conduct research on the growth, reproduction and evolution of plant life. Botanists work in laboratories, greenhouses and field settings to observe plant behavior and collect plant specimens. They use a variety of tools, including microscopes, computers and GPS devices, to document and analyze their findings. Botanists often work with other scientists, such as ecologists, to understand how plants interact with their ecosystems. They may also work with farmers, foresters and horticulturists to develop new ways to grow crops or conserve resources.

What is an Arborist?

Arborists are tree care professionals who are trained and equipped to provide proper care for trees. They are knowledgeable about the needs of trees and how to maintain their health and appearance. Arborists often work for tree care companies, landscaping companies or municipal governments. They may also be self-employed. Arborists typically provide services such as tree pruning, tree removal, tree planting, tree bracing and cabling, tree fertilization, and tree pest and disease control. They may also provide consulting services to help property owners and developers make decisions about tree planting and tree preservation.

Botanist vs. Arborist

Here are the main differences between a botanist and an arborist.

Job Duties

Job duties for botanists and arborists differ because of their focus on different plant species. Botanists study the biology, ecology, reproduction and growth patterns of various plants. They use this knowledge to help them identify, classify and determine the best methods of conservation for particular species. Their job duties may include conducting research, taking samples and performing tests in laboratories.

Arborists perform maintenance and caretaking activities for trees, which often includes climbing them to assess health concerns and diagnose treatment needs. Arborists also assist with tree planting and forestry management. They may provide advice and consultation to clients regarding tree-related issues and can work as landscaping consultants.

Job Requirements

Botanists typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in botany, biology or another related field to enter the workforce. Some research positions may require a master’s degree or doctorate. Many botanists also pursue certification through the American Society of Plant Taxonomists (ASPT). This organization offers a Certified Plant Taxonomist program that requires candidates to pass an exam and have at least two years of experience working with plants.

Arborists usually need at least a high school diploma to enter the field. However, many arborists choose to pursue a certificate or associate degree in arboriculture, horticulture or another related field. Arborists can also earn certification through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), which offers several different credentialing programs. The most popular program is the Certified Arborist program, which requires candidates to pass an exam and have at least three years of experience working with trees.

Work Environment

Botanists and arborists work in different environments. Botanists typically work outdoors, often in forests or other natural areas. They may spend time hiking through these areas to find the plants they’re studying. Arborists also work outdoors but usually focus on urban settings where trees are common. This means that an arborist might travel between cities to perform tree maintenance for various clients.

Skills

Both botanists and arborists need to have a strong understanding of plant life and the growth process. This knowledge helps them identify different species, understand how plants interact with their environment and develop strategies for planting and caring for trees and other vegetation.

Both botanists and arborists also need excellent observational skills. Botanists use these skills when they are conducting research in natural settings or studying specimens in laboratories. Arborists need observational skills to assess the health of trees and diagnose problems. They also use these skills when they are developing plans for trimming or removing trees.

While botanists typically work in office settings or laboratories, arborists often work outdoors. As a result, arborists need physical strength and stamina to climb trees and carry heavy equipment. They also need to be comfortable working at heights.

Salary

Botanists can earn an average salary of $60,055 per year, while arborists can earn an average salary of $55,386 per year. Both of these salaries may vary depending on the location of the job, the level of experience you have and the type of company you work for.