Stump Grinding & New Tree Installation in Sarasota, FL 

When it comes to tree removal, many homeowners neglect the importance of removing the stump. Leaving a stump in place can be a costly mistake, creating potential hazards and liabilities for the property owner. Not only can stumps damage lawn equipment and cause tripping hazards, but they can also attract unwanted pests such as termites, carpenter ants, other insects, rats and small animals.

 

However, there are two effective ways to remove a stump without resorting to toxic chemicals: stump grinding and full stump removal.

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Stump Grinding:

If full stump removal is not possible due to obstructions such as gates or structures limiting access to the stump or underground utilities, stump grinding is the ideal option. Stump grinding equipment is compact and can fit through most garden gates, allowing access to tight areas. With each rotation of the grinding disk, the grinder chips away at the stump, leaving behind minimal property damage in comparison to larger equipment. The grinder can handle stumps of any size, and any exposed roots can be ground up with the stump grinder. Before grinding begins, property owners or contractor must call 811 to have underground utilities located and marked.

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During the stump grinding process, it is important to stay at least 150ft away from the machine unless operating it yourself from the control panel. Stump grinders operate at high speeds, and any debris or wood chips can shoot up to 150ft through the air, posing a risk of injury to bystanders. It is also essential to notify neighbors beforehand to avoid upsetting them with the noise.

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After grinding, sawdust is spread out over the lawn, adding to the soil layer, retaining moisture for the lawn. Sawdust is noticeable for about 2-3 months until the lawn overgrows it. New plants or trees can be installed immediately after stump grinding, and topsoil can be added to where the stump once was. After filling the hole with new topsoil, sod or grass seed can be spread out to repair any damage that occurred during the stump grinding process. If planting a new tree post stump grinding be sure to give the area 6-12 months to allow the grinding chips to fully decompose into soil. Chips can be high in nitrogen, which will cause new roots to burn and the young tree to die. A method to expedite this process is to have the chips removed adding topsoil in place of the old stump. This enables immediate replanting of a new tree. 

 

 

Full Stump Removal:

Full stump removal is the ideal option when possible because it leaves nothing organic to decompose in the soil, causing no future settling or movement of the subsoil. If planning to build or construct on the area where the tree or stump is currently occupying, full stump and root removal are an absolute requirement, as it is for any future underground utility or irrigation systems. Excavation equipment is needed for stump removal, and the size of the equipment is subjective to the size of the stump and its root system. Larger stumps will require larger equipment, but in most projects, a 2-4-ton sized excavator or backhoe can accomplish the stump removal process.

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Excavated flare roots should be piled up and placed with the stump in a debris hauling truck to be hauled away and properly disposed of. After the stump has been removed, the remaining hole must be filled with fill dirt or topsoil. Compacting and grading the work area is necessary to ensure that all water will drain correctly during and after rainstorms, decreasing erosion and ensuring the yard remains in great condition for the long term.

 

Removing stumps is a crucial part of the tree removal process that should not be overlooked. Whether through stump grinding or full stump removal, property owners can avoid potential hazards and liabilities while maintaining a beautiful and healthy yard.