Hi, I’m Sonja.

I became an arborist because I love trees.

Initially I became an arborist because I realized I have a natural inclination towards woody plants and I love to prune. Woody plants, trees and shrubs give the landscape structure and texture throughout the year. Although I love the bold splashes of color brought by annuals and perennials, the woody plants are the backbone of the landscape.

To maintain the arborist certification an ISA certified arborist must obtain 30 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every 2 years. This continuing education has deepened my appreciation for the critical role for trees in a thriving landscape. As the climate begins to change more radically, I realize that we are so fortunate in the Pacific Northwest to have the tempering effect of our large native trees. Since I became an arborist every training conference I have attended has touched on climate change, not only the massive amounts of CO2 our big trees can absorb, but also understanding the socio-economic and psychological benefits of trees.

As a kid I had the privilege of growing up in a neighborhood with proverbial “tree-lined” streets. So many children in urban areas are not so fortunate. They don’t have the opportunity to climb a tree or sit in the shade of a big tree on a hot summer day. Instead they are raised in “heat islands” of asphalt with no connection to nature.

My design process involves starting with site analysis to understand the space and an onsite walkthrough to discuss needs and priorities over time, before taking measurements and designing around survey requirements. I usually present two or three options, create a planting plan from the final selection and install the design onsite with periodic check-ins to adjust designs as needed.