The Benefits of Stump Grinding

Stumps are unsightly, can be a tripping hazard for children or seniors, and can damage lawn mowers. Stump grinding is the best way to eliminate these hazards, and can also improve your yard’s appearance, as well as open up space for planting and outdoor furniture.

Stump grinding is the process of cutting through the outer layers of a tree’s trunk to the ground level, removing the stump and its potential for regrowth. The process is often done by using a power stump grinder with blades that spin at high speeds, which effectively chops up the remaining pieces of the trunk and its roots. The wood chippings created by the stump grinder can then be used as mulch for other plants in your yard.

A stump that is left in the ground will eventually sprout new growth, creating a cluster of unwanted saplings that can compete with your other plants for water and nutrients. When you have a stump grinding service remove the root system completely, it prevents these unwanted sprouts from growing, allowing your other vegetation to thrive.

Some people may choose to dig out a stump instead of having it grinded, but this can be a costly and labor-intensive process. It’s also possible to disrupt or damage the underground roots of other trees and valuable shrubbery, as well as any pipes or utilities in the area. It’s also important to call 811 before digging, as the roots of a tree can extend far from its immediate location and be buried under hardscaping materials or even concrete.

Why Have Stump Grinding Done?

Aside from being an eyesore and tripping hazard, tree stumps can be an attraction for termites. They can also be a fire hazard and provide a habitat for pests, which can spread to other areas of your property. Stump grinding can be an effective solution to these issues, as it eliminates the tripping danger and removes the fire hazard by burying the stump in its own waste products.

In addition to preventing regrowth, a stump that is ground out can help level the grade of your yard. It can also be difficult to plant new trees in the same spot as a previously established one, especially if that previous tree was a walnut or other species that secretes juglone, which prevents other types of plants from growing near it.

While it is possible to rent a stump grinder and do the work yourself, it’s generally a good idea to leave this type of heavy equipment in the hands of professionals who have experience handling large machines that can cause serious injury if mishandled. Stump grinding involves a great deal of force and massive rotating blades, making it a dangerous job for someone not trained to handle it properly. Additionally, professional stump grinders can make short work of a tall and thick set of roots with minimal impact on surrounding foliage and underground pipes. They can also help condition the soil after grinding to make it easier for you to plant grass in the area.

from TLC Trees and Co https://ift.tt/CQdxp8F