Cedarbrook Nurseries Inc. Charged exhorbitant fee for simple work; marks up labor over 300%; inflates cost of materials Powell Ohio

As the foreman on Mr. Charles S.'s project, I would like to fill in some facts missing from his report.

First, the trees that were originally $120.00 were most likely 6' tall when they were installed. Those same trees are now 20' tall with 8"-10" diameter trunks. I would guess that they have been in for over ten years.

Secondly, the trees are in the back yard against a fence. In order to attempt to straighten the trees my men had to dig the soil in a ball shape along the good side of the tree to prevent the roots from tearing away from the trunk when moved.  I mentioned to Mr. Charles S. that this would take some time and that once we staked the trees the cables could not be taken off. I also suggested that he may want to consider taking the trees out. 

Finally, I made it clear to Mr. Charles S. that the large size of the trees would require heavy cable instead of tree wire. I quoted him $48.00 per man hour, not per hour. This is normal landscape rates. It took 3 of my men 2 hours each to upright the trees and install the cables.

Although I regret Mr. S's disappointment, I believe I was clear on the scope of the work and the possible cost. 

M. Baker

Cedarbrook Supervisor