In 1913, our founder, F.A. Bartlett, began to experiment with the trees on a farm he bought for this purpose. Research was a separate department for many years until 1927, when Dr. Bartlett formally established The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories and Experimental Grounds and staffed the laboratory with some of the leading researchers of the day. After entering the United Kingdom in 1994, creation of a facility dedicated specifically to researching tree and shrub care issues in this country became a priority for Bartlett Tree Experts.

In April 2001 Bartlett opened a new research and diagnostic laboratory based at the University of Reading in Berkshire. Facilities include modern, fully equipped laboratories with an extensive library, experimental field sites and access to state-of-the-art scientific equipment like chlorophyll fluorescence, high performance liquid chromatography and polymerase chain reaction molecular biology systems. The University grounds acts as a living arboreta containing over 1000 tree species to include the Harris Gardens. The Bartlett Tree Research Laboratory is capable of evaluating plant samples, culturing and identifying disease-causing organisms, identifying insects and performing a complete soil analysis service. Staff employed have expertise in scientific disciplines to include plant pathology, entomology, soil science and plant physiology. The laboratory advises Bartlett arborists on the latest advances in arboriculture, horticulture and plant science for the benefit of their customers.

Bartlett staff also support Arboriculture and Horticulture through teaching and PhD supervision at many Colleges and Universities throughout the country. We also provide essential support to many Gardens and National Botanic Gardens from our field and laboratory resources.

Arborist Training Programs

A primary function of the Bartlett Tree Research Laboratories is to provide up-to-date technical and career training to all Bartlett Arborist Representatives, Plant Health Care Technicians, and workers who manage and treat the trees and shrubs on client properties. One-week schools for new Arborist Representatives, Plant Health Care Technicians, and Production Crew Leaders are offered at the labs as well as specialist workshops for experienced employees on topics such as lightning protection, cabling and bracing and tree hazard evaluation. One-day, technical, update meetings are provided twice a year to Arborist Representatives and Plant Health Care Technicians to keep employees informed on the latest innovations in arboriculture and horticulture. All pesticide applicators and Plant Health Care Technicians receive annual training on new products, techniques, and equipment available for pest and disease management. As a result of the many training opportunities available, Bartlett's technical expertise is unsurpassed in the industry.