Tree Service Experts in San Carlos, CA Explain the Different Stump Removal Processes
When it comes to removing that problem tree stump, a lot of terminology gets thrown around. Stump grinding? Stump removal? Most homeowners don’t know what either of those is or how they can choose the correct option for their specific situation. Luckily, with the help of a trained arborist, making the right decision gets much easier.
What Is Stump Grinding and Stump Removal? Why Choose One Over The Other?
Stump grinding is the process of using special tree care tools to grind a tree stump down to just a few inches. The roots of the tree are left intact, and what little remains of the stump is usually covered over with dirt, which allows it to decay naturally.
Stump removal, on the other hand, is exactly what it sounds like. With stump removal, the entire tree stump and attached roots (often known as a “root ball”) are completely removed from the ground. After stump removal, a hole is present in the yard, which can be fairly large depending on how big the original tree was.
With such a vast difference between stump removal and stump grinding, many homeowners worry that they won’t choose correctly. That’s where professional arborists come in.
They’ll start by determining what exactly the goal of the situation is and if there is a budget. In many cases, stump grinding can be less expensive than full stump removal. However, there is a risk that the stump may eventually grow back. Factors that may influence the decision, like the type and age of the tree stump, the condition of the soil around it, and its diameter will also be discussed.
Is It Possible To Still Plant a Tree After A Stump Grinding or Removal?
One other factor to consider when deciding between stump grinding and stump removal is whether or not there are plans to replant a tree in the same spot. For homeowners who plan to put more trees in the area where the stump was, stump removal is their only option.
With stump grinding, the soil that remains around the decaying stump will be limited in its mineral and nutrient content. This makes it far less stable for a new tree that requires additional resources to grow in a healthy way.
Why Homeowners Should Always Work With A Professional
For one, working with a tree services company is just safer. A lot can happen when working with trees, so hiring an arborist to handle either a stump grinding or a stump removal drastically reduces the risk of damage to either the homeowner or the surrounding landscaping.
Hiring a professional also means that they will take care of the cleanup. Especially in the case of stump grinding, the sawdust and debris left behind can add up fast. Part of utilizing tree services is that clean up will be taken care of for the homeowner.
In addition, arborists can help guide the homeowner to future landscaping decisions after the service is performed. Hiring a professional is always the recommended way to handle any tree care, no matter how experienced the homeowner may be.
About Ned Patchett Tree Care & Consulting
Operating out of San Carlos, California, Ned Patchett Tree Care & Consulting specializes in arboricultural consulting with a focus on landscape design and maintenance and tree preservation. Our team of certified arborists provides a variety of services including stump removal, fire risk mitigation, landscape design, and tree appraisal. Call our family-owned business at (650) 728-8308.
