If you have a recently cut or fallen tree, stump grinding can eliminate the unwanted stump. Removing a tree stump can instantly improve the aesthetics, safety, and health of your landscape. Grinding the stump also hands you back a nice chunk of usable yard, room for a garden bed, a patio, or whatever you’ve been envisioning. However, it’s not a one-and-done process; there are a few more steps involved.

That Is a Lot of Wood Chips

Stump grinding uses a powerful cutting wheel to grind down the tree stump and the surrounding root area. During the procedure, it creates a massive volume of wood chips and dust, and not every tree service company will remove the debris. It depends on your contract. Some homeowners request a complete grinding debris haul-away at an additional cost.

Start by raking up the wood chips. Some of it is worth keeping as decent mulch, or it’ll break down nicely in a compost pile. However, don’t leave the wood chips all sitting there. Pile too many wood chips on the lawn or in a garden bed, and you’ll smother whatever’s trying to grow underneath.

Now, Cover Up the Hole, and More

The hole left by stump grinding really needs to go. If left alone, it becomes an ankle-twisting hazard waiting for someone to step in the wrong spot. Tree service experts recommend trimming back any roots still poking up near the surface, then getting to work leveling things out.

Don’t just fill in the space. Layer in some high-quality topsoil over the area, something nutrient-rich that can support new grass or plants. Pack it down firmly as you go because loose soil sinks, and sunken soil collects water. You don’t want pooling around there. Mound it up a little higher than the surrounding lawn, too. It’ll settle over the next few weeks, and starting slightly high keeps you from ending up with a dip later on. If you notice sinking, add more topsoil intermittently; that is not unusual post-grinding.

You Now Have a Blank Canvas to Work On

Stump grinding removes an unattractive tree stump. It also paves the way for exciting new landscaping and/or growing possibilities. Maybe you want a new lawn, or you dream of a patio installed in the area or a new tree or shrub in its place. Take your time in determining how to utilize the extra space.

Stump grinding offers wonderful benefits and can keep your property healthier. The process can prevent the spread of tree diseases from the stump to other thriving trees in the vicinity. Just follow the tips outlined above for a smooth landscaped recovery. If you live in Camden County, NJ or a surrounding area and need stump grinding services, make your first call to Franco’s Tree Service.