What Is Stump Grinding?

Stump Grinding is not only an aesthetic service it can also be an effective way to prevent the regrowth of unwanted tree stumps. There are many reasons why a homeowner might want to get rid of an old and rotting stump: It may be in the way of mowing, creating a trip hazard, or just an eyesore. While the temptation to take on this project on your own is great, it is important to understand that stump grinding is a different process than removing a tree.

It takes specialized equipment to grind a tree stump and the process is more involved than simply chopping off the top of the remaining trunk with a chainsaw. Stump grinding involves the use of a machine called a grinder which does exactly what it sounds like – grinds the stump down to below ground level and removes the roots as well. This allows the soil to be easily prepared for a landscaping or construction project and minimizes the chance of regrowth.

To do this, the grinder has a rotating cutter head that is pulled across the surface of the stump, cutting away the woody material. The cutter head can reach a depth of about 10 inches, which is typically enough to ensure that the stump and roots are completely removed from the site. If the grinding head goes deeper, it can cause damage to the grinder and will need to be redirected.

As a general rule, the roots that are left in the ground will eventually die off, but this can take several years. While this is a good thing, it can be a major inconvenience for the property owner and may require regular spraying of chemical stump killer. The best alternative is to have the stump ground and filled in, which can be done by a professional landscaping company.

Before beginning a stump grinding job, Burke says it’s important to have the proper equipment and safety barricades in place. He also recommends getting in touch with the local utility department and calling the Diggers Hotline to have all underground lines marked before starting the project. The most common way someone can get injured while grinding a stump is by hitting an unmarked line.

While there is no set time to finish a stump grinding job, it generally can be completed in about an hour for a small stump with a minimal root system. For larger stumps or those with more intricate root systems, it may take much longer. Consult with our tree experts for more information on how long your specific project will take.

After the stump is ground, the leftover wood chips are a valuable byproduct that can be used for mulch. Adding this to flower beds and garden areas in the fall is a great way to nourish the soil and prepare it for colder temperatures. It can also help repel weeds and protect existing plants during the winter. Leaving the mulch in place will help prevent weed growth come springtime as well.

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