After a tree has died and been removed, you’ll still probably be left with a stump to deal with. (In some cases, the tree may have died and been removed years to decades ago, and you might STILL have a stump you’re dealing with.) If you’ve decided the remaining stump is something that needs to be addressed, and not just ignored, you’re on the right path to solving the problem and putting the stump behind you.
The two most popular solutions are to either have the stump removed (usually dug out) or have the stump ground out (cut up and left in place to decompose). And there isn’t one right answer to the question of which is the better solution. It really has to do with choosing the option that suits your goals for your home.
Stump Removal
In short, stump removal involves … removing the stump. It is most often dug out of the ground, pulled out and taken away.
Pros:
- A complete solution. Nothing of the stump is left, so there are no worries when it comes to decomposition, infestations, or regrowth.
Cons:
- Physically challenging. Digging out the stump for a sizable tree is not a task that can be done by hand. It requires digging equipment and possibly even a crane for removal. (For a small tree, this can be done by hand, but really only for a very small tree stump.)
- It leaves a hole/dent/depression in the ground. Even if you do things the “right way” and have the hole filled in with dirt, it’s unlikely that the soil will settle evenly. Over time, a low spot is likely to develop, which can range in level of concern from an unsightly dent to a dangerous tripping hazard.
- Time scale. Some types of “removal” are actually just methods of helping the stump decay in place without much intervention. Although these methods will (eventually) be effective, they can take a really long time to work.
- In some areas, stumps can be “removed” by burning them (although this isn’t permitted everywhere). Though effective, this can be dangerous, as people can be harmed and structures can be damaged if the fire should spread.
Stump Grinding
In short, stump grinding involves … grinding the stump. Specific techniques and equipment are used to break down the stump in place, ceasing any further growth without removing the material from the roots and stump.
Pros:
- No dent or hole remains. Since the stump and roots are left in place, there’s no hole or depression left afterwards. The remaining wood breaks down in place, eventually becoming soil itself.
- Quick and easy. With the right equipment and expertise, stump grinding can be a quick and easy process.
- Stump grinding is usually cheaper than having a stump dug out (because it takes a lot less time).
- Less mess. Overall, stump grinding is a pretty tidy process, and the only by-product will be some extra wood chips you can use elsewhere in your garden.
Cons:
- Decomposition hazards. Because the material from the stump and the roots break down in place, the bacteria and molds that decompose the wood will be there, under the ground in your yard. Although it’s unlikely, there’s a small risk that these could affect other trees in your yard or cause a health hazard to people or pets.
- Done properly, this is really unlikely, but there’s a small chance that a ground stump could still resprout if some of the roots aren’t completely severed.
With all of this to consider, it’s always good to get an expert opinion on your dead tree stump and what to do about it. Call in a tree service professional who can evaluate your situation and give you advice tailored to your home and yard. Here in Cincinnati, you can call Tree Images at 513.528.4167 to find out more about the best solution for your stump removal.
(Although not mentioned here, other methods of stump removal, such as “chemical burning” are not recommended due to their health and environmental impacts.)
