"Every little girl wants to be just like their father. I just took it a bit more literally than most."
Growing up watching her father, Jeremiah, build A1 Tree Pros, Micayla gained more than just business acumen—she developed a deep passion for plant care and an understanding of how it continues to scientifically evolve.
"Most people think tree services are all about removal," Micayla explains. "But we would much rather save a tree than remove one. It's twofold—saving a tree is oftentimes much cheaper than removing one. In fact, 99% of the time, this is the more affordable option."
Micayla isn't simply stepping into her father's shoes—she's forging her own path and fulfilling a legacy that runs as deep as the roots of the trees and plants she protects. She is reshaping traditional tree care into cutting-edge plant healthcare, embracing A1 Tree Pros' tagline, "Health & Hugs to Trees & Shrubs." This philosophy underscores a nurturing approach to nature, emphasizing plant well-being through expert care and a simple, easy-to-follow way to foster their vitality and growth.
Micayla's passion for plant care led her to The University of Maryland, College Park Institute of Applied Agriculture, where she's completing her degree in Ornamental Horticulture. As a Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) graduating with her degree this May, Micayla brings a rare combination: extensive scientific knowledge paired with hands-on experience.
"Understanding plant disease at the cellular level isn't just academic knowledge. It's about giving trees their best chance at survival through every season and challenge," Micayla explains.
In an industry traditionally dominated by men, Micayla has had her fair share of challenges, but she's learned to let expertise speak louder than anything. "Don't overthink it" is something she lives by and advises other women entering male-dominated fields. "Show up and show people that you know what you're talking about. You'll run into people who may not give you the respect firsthand, but there's always someone else who would rather offer you encouragement than bring you down."
Her father, Jeremiah, beams with pride commenting on Micayla's leadership. "She doesn't just solve problems," he says. "She prevents them. She finds solutions where others see obstacles and it’s incredibly rewarding to watch her embrace this mindset. It’s a much healthier way to see the world."
Micayla's love for plants started early. In high school, she applied for an FFA SAE grant, receiving $1,000 to fund her own agricultural experience. With the grant, she grew and sold perennials for her school's annual greenhouse sale, eventually expanding her project by repurposing a greenhouse from a local tractor supply store. Over two years, she reinvested her profits, nurturing plants even over winter and summer breaks. This dedication to plant care shaped her hands-on approach to business today.
Looking to the future, Micayla's vision extends beyond tree services. "My goal for A1 Tree Pros is to branch further into plant healthcare," she explains. "It's important to me that generations to come can experience the natural beauty we enjoy today."
Micayla is nurturing a legacy of environmental consciousness, one that promises to keep growing for generations to come. Under her leadership, A1 Tree Pros has become more than a service provider. It is becoming a guardian of our green future, ensuring that the shade and beauty we enjoy today is the same we will enjoy tomorrow.
Micayla shares three vital tips for ensuring healthy trees and shrubs:
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Monitor for cross branching: Preventing branches from rubbing against each other will avoid wounds that invite disease and pests.
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Prune wisely: Annual pruning promotes better airflow, sunlight penetration and overall plant health.
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Avoid over-mulching: Mulch to shade and shelter, but do not suffocate the tree's base with too much mulch.
With vision and dedication, Micayla is proving that plant and tree care is about more than maintenance—it's about cultivating a healthier, greener future. A1TreePros.com