/ Stump Grinding

 

You may be wondering: What is stump grinding and why do I need it? Won’t the stump of a tree naturally decompose if left alone over time? The answer is yes, usually a tree stump will naturally decompose over time; however, a large tree stump can be unsightly or even become a hazard as fungus and other plants grow around and on top making it difficult to see. Depending on how large a tree is, the stump can take over 20 years to decompose on its own and some tree stumps will send out small branches called “shoots” in an effort to regrow themselves. Sometimes a tree stump is best removed quickly, depending on the species of tree removed, and stump grinding can be a safe and cost-effective way to achieve this.

 

Stump grinding involves using professional machinery to turn the stump of your tree into wood chips. The grinding process will remove the tree stump itself as well as some of the roots of the tree just below the surface. Stump grinding is noisy and can be dangerous, as stump grinding machinery is heavy and can be difficult to operate and possibly throw rocks. The process also sends woodchips flying in all directions, so a protective barrier is needed to protect people, landscaping, and structures. We always recommend hiring a licensed and insured professional to execute the job. Johnny Apple Tree Care has ISA Certified Arborist and well trained staff who carry the proper insurance and have experience handling heavy machinery and safely grinding stumps in a variety of settings.

 

In contrast to digging a tree stump up, which generally causes major damage to the area around the stump, grinding a stump causes relatively little damage to the surrounding area. It is also not recommended to dig up a tree stump that is within a few feet of a home or any other structure as it can cause disturbance or damage to the surrounding ground and buildings or change the grading. Stump grinding is safe to perform in most locations that are clear of utilities and can be accomplished any place the equipment can access and be safely operated. Grinding a stump will create a hole in the ground where the tree stump and the roots once were. This hole can be filled with dirt or with a mix of dirt and the wood chips created by grinding the stump.  It’s good practice to leave a mound, as the chips will break down and sink in after the stump grinding. The area can then be sodded, covered with grass, or incorporated into other landscaping.

 

Stump grinding guarantees that the remains of your tree don’t become a tripping hazard and it prevents any off shoots of the tree from rooting and beginning to grow. If you are removing a diseased or pest covered tree, stump grinding can also be a good way to contain the disease or pests.

 

Johnny Apple Tree Care has ISA certified arborists on staff who have decades of experience grinding stumps in a variety of settings. We are happy to answer any questions you have about the stump grinding process or your specific stump grinding needs. Give us a call today at 970-316-0777 or email trees@johnnyappletreecare.com.