I contacted Class One Aboriculture about some concerns I had with an Olive tree and Eucalyptus tree. James gave me the option of paying for an on site evaluation/estimate or texting him some pictures for his quick review. He got back to me right away and helped me logically work through my concerns and discuss my options. The conversation led to me asking him some questions on how to care for my ficus trees as well! James is very knowledgeable, objective, and professional in his evaluation and now I know what next steps I need to take in deciding how to manage the trees on my property. Thanks again James! read more

If there were an electoral process for arborists, I'd go to all of James Komen's conventions with a big button. We wanted an arborist to come look at multiple ailing trees on our property in North Hollywood and who could work with us on selecting replacement trees that were, preferably, native to Southern California. I looked up names on isa-arbor.com's Find an Arborist tool and found several arborists who worked in our area. I called just about all of them and just about all of them responded, but James had the first availability (and I think may have been the very first to call back). During the consultation, I was impressed by James' seriousness, commitment, and knowledge. He spent more than an hour with us and I think he looked at just about every single tree and shrub we had, not just the ones we called about. I learned a lot. James is very smart but not a know-it-all, and he has an understanding of certain landscaping politics in Los Angeles that I really appreciated. He is not a militant or faddish "nativist" by any means, but he understood and respected my preferences. I believe he is more engaged by trees themselves than by any particular trends in garden design. I liked that about him, too. At the end of our consultation, James proposed that we work together on finding native trees and large shrubs that I liked that would work on the site and that, if I wanted to, after we had decided on the best ones, he and his crew could also do the planting in the fall. And that's just what we did over some months, and it has been a very satisfying experience. James was always willing to look at my suggestions, was completely open to considering trees he hadn't necessarily worked with before, was patient with my sometimes very busy schedule and/or oddball questions, and was also always direct and honest when I suggested a tree that he did not think would work or that might be prone to certain diseases or other issues. His crew did the planting over just about two days in early December and the specimens are beautifully planted and securely staked where necessary (and I have been very grateful of this during some of the windy days and nights this winter). In addition, they set up soaker hoses around the drip line of each tree with very specific instructions on how much to water and how often (with the understanding that, as James put it, a lot about irrigation can be "trial and error" and requires some monitoring and attention on the caretaker's part.) Neither of us were actually able to be home during the majority of those two days and it went just fine. I've read James' other reviews on the site and agree with all of them and think they do him justice--and am very glad to see him getting the praise and appreciation he deserves. I still consult with James by email and will be hiring him again for a follow-up site visit in the fall. Trees are probably one of the most important elements of any landscape and I think you definitely want to get the best arborist you can. You'd be very lucky to get to work with James. read more

Jame was awesome. I have a much loved melaleuca in my front garden that is failing quickly. Jame offered to view a couple photos and talk it out before coming out for a fee. We talked a couple different times and, even though I suggested I pay him to come diagnose the problem, he helped me think through if it was even worth the investment, given what we talked about with my tree. In the end, I got excellent advice without requiring a paid visit. I have a feeling if I needed that visit, his guidance would be well worth the cost. We shall see how my tree fares. Unfortunately it may be a goner. read more

I contacted James after learning of his stellar reputation in the community. He blew my (high) expectations away. His breadth of knowledge, passion and experience with trees was immediately evident to me. He is highly articulate, detailed, and able to reference the latest research on fertilizers, dangers, treatments, etc. He was extremely helpful and informative, and saved me a TREMENDOUS amount of money. I cannot recommend him strongly enough. read more

Had high expectations after reading all these reviews - and was not disappointed! Thorough conversation with James, texted photos of the tree we were concerned about and he had great suggestions. I appreciated that he was forthright that it really didn't necessitate his checking out the tree at this time and I'll have them out in the fall when it's better to trim. It's clear that he's very knowledgeable and we'll definitely work with him in the future. read more

I have a problem with my Italian cypresses and James was able to diagnose the problem and gave me honest and free advice. He got back to me the same day and was very professional. Very happy that I called him. Highly recommend him. read more

Very knowledgeable, patient, and polite consultation. I have all the confidence that James knew what was going on with my tree and the best course of action to take. Thanks again!. read more

James is incredibly helpful, and he eased my mind about my giant tree. He didn't just give me his opinion, he also explained WHY he came up with his answer. I'm glad I called, and will be contacting him again since I actually have TWO giant trees! read more

James was prompt, knowledgable and friendly. He knew about all my trees and plants and had usable advice for each of them. I've already put steps into action to return my property to a lush haven rather than the crusty, dying semi-garden that is its current state. I know nothing about trees but James made everything easy. He reply right away and came out to my property the very next day. Now I feel confident to make changes to my garden that won't be throwing money away or causing harm. read more

Very knowledgeable, very patiently explained everything I needed to know, helped me avoid violating city's code, all without any charge , would highly recommend James who needs arborist service read more

I called for advice & consultation on removal of a private tree. James asked me to send him photos. He gave me info over the phone based on his experience in doing peer reviews for he city about how my application would be viewed. That was it! Free valuable input. Helped me understand tree preservation if it's not causing an imminent danger. read more

James was incredibly helpful in settling an internal dispute between my condo neighbors regarding a tree they thought to be potentially damaging to our building's foundation. He responded to my call immediately and provided clear and effective advice, including an array of options for how to move forward proactively. I will be using Class One in the future for all our tree needs. read more

I contacted James about a flowering pear tree in our front yard that was looking pretty sick after years of drought. He requested some photos and gave me wonderful information right over the phone. Time will tell whether our tree will require further care from a professional, but I was so impressed by his knowledge, care, and generosity, that I can't imagine calling anyone but James, if we ever need a tree expert. I learned so much in just our short phone conversation! It's no surprise that he has so many five star reviews. read more

Wow! James is incredibly knowledgeable! I was concerned about two sycamore trees which started to bud then all the tender leaves turned brown and shriveled. I sent photos to James via Yelp and called him. He told me due to the rain pattern, we are seeing an increase in anthrocnose infection in sycamores this season. A tree doctor doing telemedicine during a pandemic. LOL. I love how James's explanations are like teaching a topic that he is passionate about. It is unbelievable that his shared his knowledge at no cost over the phone. Really appreciate it! Thank you. read more

What a lifesaver. I reached out to James about a very large tree on my property that had gotten somewhat brown after the super hot summer we had this year, and after sending him photos and information, he filled me in on what the tree was, the options on how to deal with it via watering and care, but more importantly, probably saved me hundreds of dollars in removing it prematurely by informing me that it actually looked quite good for the heat we've had. Incredibly helpful, courteous, extremely prompt and extremely knowledgeable. I wouldn't go anywhere else if you need someone who knows his trees! read more

So glad I found these guys! I had some questions regarding a giant Oak tree in my back yard. I contacted James, who asked that I send him some photos of the tree. He then called me, explained what was causing the problems and recommended some specialists to contact - all free of charge. I would def recommend this company! read more

I haven't had a need to hire him (yet), but James gave me lots of great advice over the phone. Class One seems an accurate name - he seems to very deeply understand all the issues that might come up with trees, and communicates clearly and honestly. Obviously smart and experienced, should the need arise I'd feel confident working with James. read more

I contacted James for help in determining whether or not we needed to remove a tree that was invading our porch. He was able to tell me if the tree was protected and what sort of damage it was likely to do. His company does not perform tree removal, and he did not ask for any compensation for this information. His information helped us out enormously and allowed us to make an informed decision. read more

James was quick to respond and incredibly generous with his time and expertise. I sent photos and plans of a potential construction project that would impact the health of two adjacent trees and he gave me his unvarnished opinion. I will now consider changing the scope of the job based on his assessment. read more

Great experience working with these guys. James was great. SUPER smart & qualified.

Excellent! I was fortunate to have been referred to James. He responded to my call quickly and we met shortly thereafter. His expertise, exceptional detail, advice and thoroughness was terrific. Thank you again James! read more

I spoke To James He's a honest & passionate, about his work it's refreshing to find people that do what they love. Thank you James for all your help. Blessing to you brother! read more

James looked at my trees on line and went through the options with me... 1) keep as is and manage the issues, 2) retop (not recommended) 3) thin 4) reduce crown or 5) remove. It was pretty straight forward, but he helped frame the options in a decision tree which makes the consideration easier. He doesn't trim trees, but will make formal recommendations. read more

I was concerned about the lean of a pepper tree that I had planted a couple years ago. James gave a detailed explanation of potential causes for the lean. After a test, the tree appeared to be in fine shape and to be self-correcting nicely. He's very honest, generous with his time and super knowledgeable. read more

Reached out to James to get some information on trees on our property. He responded super quickly, and based on photos I texted him, he was able to give me a great rundown of things to watch out for, tree by tree. There was never a sense of being upsold, and he definitely seemed very knowledgeable. It was very reassuring to have an expert opinion on a topic that I really have no clue about, without having to worry about whether or not I was getting played. read more

James returned our call quickly and spent 1/2 hour or more on the phone with my husband and me. He reviewed lots of photos from our very-in-depth home inspection and talked us through some concerns we were having about the trees on our new property. He was practical, knowledgeable and very friendly. It was also a Friday in the summer at 5:30 but he never gave anything other than his full attention. I would not hesitate to call James with questions or concerns. Great find. read more

Even though I didn't have the pleasure meeting the arborist, James was prompt at responding to my call and provided invaluable advice after I texted him the photos of our not-so-well cedar. He saved us the money for getting him out. We will definitely call Class One again when we need advice on trees. read more

I contacted Class One and got great advice regarding an issue with 2 king palms. I highly recommend them.

It's wonderful to find someone who genuinely cares about their work and the trees in Los Angeles. James told me the fee for performing an in-person full report but then said he could give me his opinion for free about beautiful trees that had been butchered by the city and we are hoping to save. I sent him some photos and then we spoke for 15-20 minutes where he gave me his professional opinion on what our options were. Truly a remarkable and wonderful experience to speak with someone who so genuinely cares about what he does. read more

Wow. No one gives service like this anymore. I called to ask how much to come out and diagnose my tree problem. He said, "Why don't you send me some pictures of the issue, and we can chat for free." Within the hour, I was given information about my tree, why it looked so lousy, and the various options I had to resolve the problem. All this on a Sunday evening, after hours. Did I mention this was free? I'm not sure what I'm going to do about my lousy looking tree, but any tree services I need, now or in the future, I've found my arborist. Knowledgeable, speedy, and friendly service. You don't find that anywhere these days. read more

James is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. He presented me with different options when I had a sick tree and helped to educate me in the process! His experience coupled with his willingness to engage and communicate in depth about trees is a winning combination. I highly recommend him for anything you need an arborist for. read more

What a wonderful service that James provides. I took pictures of the large pepper tree that I had wanted to be pruned. James called me back and explained in great and clear detail that pruning was not the answer for this tree. He saved me a lot of money to have the tree severely trimmed and now I feel confident to leave it in its natural state. It is a beautiful tree and we are very glad to keep it that way, thanks to James. read more

I haven't met or even spoken to James for that matter as we kept missing each other's calls but this review is warranted just based on a voicemail he left me. I left him a message inquiring about some care for our olive trees, he got back to me quickly after however I missed the call. James informed me he would be happy to come and have a look but first off I may want to reach out to a local city arborist can give free advice on how to take care of my issue (I didn't even know such a service existed!). He suggested I first called the city arborist and if I still need help I can contact him and he can come out. I contacted the city arborist & he gave me all the info I needed to hopefully save my trees. I want to thank James for his honesty & saving me what could have been an expensive journey. It's rare these days to have people be honest and not try to "make a buck". So based on that and all the other positive reviews I will not hesitate to recommend James if you want honest & knowledgeable service. Thank you James!!! read more

James was very helpful. He took a look via some quick pictures I texted him of trees on our property and offered some valuable insights immediately. He quickly identified the trees even from some sub-par pictures I took. Very knowledgeable. read more

Spoke with James on the phone, texted him photos of my tree. He was able to evaluate the health of the tree and make some predictions and recommendations, as well as diagnose the cause of the trees ill health, which was over trimming. He didn't charge me for any of this. The next time I need an arborist, I'll be calling Class One. read more

My husband and I recently purchased a house and it has 2 beautiful but large Sequoia and Redwood trees. I reached out to Class One Arboriculture to have the trees examined and Hames reached out to me. He offered to look at photos of the trees via text for free and he could let me know if there was anything to be concerned about or if an inspection of the trees would be necessary. I texted them on Super Bowl Sunday not expecting a response but he called me back and let me know that they both seemed in great shape! Really nice guy and if I ever need anything else when it comes to our plants I will definitely reach out to James again! read more

James is extremely knowledgeable and friendly. He answered my questions via photos and he thoroughly addressed all of my concerns over the phone. Thanks, James! read more

James was very responsive and provided excellent explanations for care. I highly recommend him to anyone who cares about their trees.

Spoke with James about what needed to be done to get my protected Oak tree cut. All I can say from talking to him over the phone and sending him pictures is he is a stand up guy. He answered my questions and said it couldn't be done. I don't usually leave yelp reviews but someone who's this honest needed it. He could have said I'll come out and do the report and charged me and I would have been out the fee he charges but he didn't do that. read more

James was incredibly helpful and knowledgeable about the variety of trees we have. He put my mind at ease about caring for them. I was particularly concerned about our Liquid Amber tree, specifically whether or not it had xylella. He also recommended removal of trees that were in the wrong places and would wreak havoc later. read more