The process of removing a tree can be a very intensive one, requiring careful planning. One of the things that you, as a homeowner, want to put into consideration is what to do with the heavy stump that’s left behind after the tree removal.
What should you do with the stump grinding? Should it just be left untouched in your yard or just get it removed with the whole tree from the start? So many questions will come to mind.
In this article, we answer the question of whether stump grinding kills your tree roots and what to do with the stump after grinding. For further information, please visit sandiegotreeremovalservice.com.
Should you remove tree stumps or leave them?
Choosing between leaving your tree stumps and having them removed for good can be difficult. However, it is recommended to remove them if you can. While the presence of old tree stumps may not cause initial problems, the longer you leave them, the more nuisance they tend to constitute. For example, mowing your lawn can be difficult with the presence of a tree stump and can even cause anyone walking around the stump to trip. Also, when you’re ready to plant a new tree, exiting tree stumps can pose problems.
Although creepy critters are the most common argument for tree stump removal, it is important that you also consider the following:
- The appearance of your yard can be negatively altered by the presence of a decaying stump, thereby affecting your property value.
- It is almost impossible to plant new trees in your yard with stumps and outspread roots obstructing the way.
- As earlier stated, mowing your lawn with the stumps is never advised because mowing over the roots and stumps by accident could cause damage to the mower.
What happens to roots after stump grinding?
The separation of stumps from a tree that was in your yard is usually followed by a very slow process of decay. The issue with this is that, with time, this decaying stump becomes a breeding ground for pests that can cause damage to your home such as carpenter ants and termites.
While leaving the stump to rot could be a convenient choice, the possible consequence is that creatures may invade other trees and plants in your yard, and even your home. The best way to prevent this pest invasion is to grind the stump down or have it removed.
Is it better to grind a stump or remove it?
There are advantages and downsides to both stump grinding and stump removal. The best option to go for between the two will largely be determined by the future plans for your landscape.
Of the two options, the process of stump removal is the more intrusive, requiring that the heavy tree stump be heaved up and the widespread roots of the trees are dug out. Apparently, this is a time-consuming process requiring powerful tools to be done effectively. The good thing about stump removal is that it leaves your landscape clean and gives you the opportunity to explore new ideas for it. One downside you will have to deal with is that stump removal leaves your landscape with a large hole until filled. This can be an eyesore.
The stump grinding process is a lot less intensive. A machine is needed to shred the stump completely into small wood chips. When done by a professional arborist, grinding is a very efficient process than removal. The issue with grinding is that the roots of the tree are left behind. Other plants in your landscape can use the chip pile that comes from large stumps as mulch.
Making the decision of which one is the best option for you between stump removal or grinding may be a difficult one, especially if your knowledge of trees is limited. That is why it is important that you engage the service of a professional arborist both for the decision-making and the execution of the job.
Final word
One way that the remains of a tree stump can be used is to grind them into mulch for other trees and plants in your yard. The alternative is to have them removed and disposed of. While you could hire a stump grinder to get the job done yourself, it is never advised. In addition to the potential danger involved in doing it yourself, the machine requires proper knowledge and skill to handle. More so, you may not be experienced to remove all the stumps and widespread roots.
For the stump grinding job to be done efficiently and for the tree roots to be killed, it is best to engage the service of a professional stump grinder. However, you want to ensure that you do proper research on the professional you want to hire. A good way is to read what customers have to say about them on Better Business Bureau.