What is the difference between arboriculture and urban forestry?

Arboriculture is primarily concerned with the cultivation, management, and study of individual trees, focusing on their health, growth, and maintenance. This includes a wide array of practices such as pruning, fertilization, pest management, and tree removal. The role of arborists is often to care for individual trees in various settings, including landscapes and gardens.

Urban forestry, on the other hand, encompasses a broader perspective. It involves the management of tree populations in urban settings, which includes not only individual trees but also the overall ecosystem of urban green spaces. Urban forestry emphasizes the importance of trees as components of urban infrastructure and their contributions to environmental and social benefits, such as improving air quality, providing shade, and enhancing aesthetic value in densely populated areas.

The distinction highlighted in the correct answer reflects this difference in scope: arboriculture primarily considers individual trees, while urban forestry represents a more holistic view of tree management within the context of urban ecosystems. This integrative approach includes planning and policies related to tree canopies, community involvement, and the integration of trees into urban design.