When a tree is removed from your garden, it is common practice to also remove the stump. However, you may choose to leave a stump in place and wonder what the consequences will be. Here we will discuss the potential risks and issues that can arise if you don’t grind a stump.
- Additional Tree Growth – You might think cutting the tree down was a pretty final decision, however if healthy tree root remains it can sprout new growth. This can eventually lead to the formation of multiple trees from the same stump and take nutrients from the surrounding area. If left to grow, it can become more difficult and expensive to remove than the initial stump.
- Property Damage – If left to grow, the root system can damage nearby structures and underground utilities. It is particularly important to deal with the stump if the tree was removed due to concerns about property damage, otherwise the problem may persist or worsen.
- Decay and Disease Spread – If the tree was diseased or infested when it was removed, the new growth can also spread the problem to other trees in your garden.
- Safety – Leaving a stump can also be a tripping hazard. So, if it is in a high traffic area it can be a safety concern. You could also be liable if someone were to injure themselves.
- Aesthetics – If you leave a stump it can also look ugly (especially when it starts to rot) and interfere with the overall appearance of your garden. It can also make lawn maintenance a bit tricky.
- Space – Lastly, leaving a stump can take up space that could be used for something else or interrupt the impression of space.
When to Remove a Tree Stump
It can take a few years for a stump to start decaying, although this can vary depending on the climate, environment and location of the stump, among other factors. However, before that starts to happen, the root system may start growing new shoots on or around the stump. We would always recommend removing the stump at the same time as the tree, partly due to the reasons outlined above, but mostly because this will be the most cost-efficient way to remove it. If you are looking for a tree removal company, please take a look at our sister company that specialises in tree removals, The Tree Man.
In summary, if you leave a stump rot can cause a number of problems. The stump can be unsightly, dangerous and can even cause structural damage to your property. It can also sprout new growth, which can cause further issues and be hard to remove in the future. We recommend grinding the stump to avoid these issues. If you are considering doing the job yourself, this article covers the different ways to remove a stump, whilst you can read about the key things you should take into consideration if you are thinking about stump grinding yourself here.
However, if you are hesitant to do it yourself, it’s best to contact a professional tree service to handle the task for you. If you are in the South Devon area, we would be happy to provide you with a quote. You can use the links below to either send us some key details to get a same-day online quote or submit a contact request form and we will be in touch. Alternatively, give us a call! 🙂