Stump grinding is the flattening of a fallen tree's stump. The process leaves the roots intact. Stump grinding allows the homeowner to use the area once occupied by a tree in order to plant other shrubs. You can also use the mulch produced by the stump grinder to improve the fertility of your yard. Here's some more information about questions you may have about it.

What Is Left After Grinding a Stump?

A stump grinder has a blade that grinds the surface roots and the stump, producing a mulch made of dirt and tree material. The volume of the mulch created by stump grinding is greater than the original stump. The mulch is valuable as it decomposes quickly, and you can apply it in flower beds or use it for composting. The mulch is packed into the area after it has settled, and you can plant small plants or establish a flower bed.

How Does a Stump Grinder Work?

A stump grinder is a mechanical device that facilitates stump grinding. Stump grinders come in a wide variety of sizes. The tree crew leaves the remaining stump at least six inches above the ground to allow the stump grinder to remove it safely. Some grinders are equipped with tracks while others have wheels, depending on the design. According to Connect2Local, you can grind your stump to a depth of 12 inches and plant another shrub in the same area.

Why Should You Consider Stump Grinding Over Stump Removal?

Most homeowners prefer stump grinding over removal as it is a cost-effective approach that requires a small amount of time. Grinding the stump to a particular depth leaves no gaping hole, and roots can decompose naturally. You do not have to dig up the terrain to remove the roots or use harmful chemicals that damage the soil quality and the environment. The ground is immediately used for planting other plants after grinding. Chemical stump removal may lead to fungal growth and infestation as the tree stump is left to rot for weeks.

Can I Pave or Build Over the Area Where a Stump Was Ground?

An important consideration to make is whether you wish to add a patio or paving to the region initially occupied by the tree stump. A tree stump is an organic material and will decompose with time, making it loose when used as a base for construction. The root material below the ground decays over time, which may compromise the integrity of your structure. You must ensure the remaining roots and stump are correctly removed, the hole filled with native soil, and the area compacted to the required level for construction.

Some homeowners leave the tree stump to decompose and decay. Instead, you can hire a tree service for stump grinding and use the resulting mulch for your landscaping needs. Talk to Stump Chompers LLC for more information about stump grinding!