What is Stump Removal? – Advice by Tree Surgery Glasgow Professionals
Stump removal involves the complete extraction of a tree stump and its roots from the ground. This process is often necessary after a tree has been cut down to ensure that the whole area is cleared for new landscaping or planting a new tree.
If the old tree was diseased, removing and destroying the entire root system helps prevent the disease from spreading.
However, complete stump removal can be a time-consuming and labour-intensive process, particularly for larger stumps with widespread roots.
There are different methods of how to fully remove the stump. Ways to remove a tree stump include:
1. Digging Out by Hand
Only recommended and suitable for smaller trees, a spade or shovel can be used to dig around the stump. Once the roots are exposed, cutting tools or pickaxes can be used to get rid of the roots. Finally, the base of the stump can be loosened and rocked free from the ground.
2. Mechanical Excavation
Suitable for larger stumps, heavy-duty machinery such as a small excavator can dig out the entire stump and all of the tree’s roots. This removal process is quick and effective but can be disruptive to the surrounding area.
3. Chemical Stump Removal
For this method, holes are drilled into the stump’s surface and chemical solutions are poured inside. The chemicals seep down and infiltrate all the way into the tree’s root system. This process is repeated over weeks or months, as the tree gradually decays.
While effective, it’s a slow method, and some consider it controversial because of its potential impact on the environment.
Stump Grinding
Stump grinding involves using a stump grinder to grind the stump down to a few inches below the surface. The sawdust collected from stump grinding can be used as mulch for the garden. Unlike stump removal, it does not remove the entire stump and root system.
Stump Removal vs Stump Grinding
There are pros and cons to both approaches.
The benefits of stump grinding are that it is usually simpler, quicker and less costly than stump removal. This makes stump grinding a more popular option. Tree stump grinding may be preferred for a bulky tree stump.
However, there is a risk of pests, such as carpenter ants, infesting the rotting wood. In these instances, stump removal might be the best bet.
Sometimes if you plan to build in an area, complete removal of the tree stump is necessary.
Leave The Tree Stump
A complete alternative is to leave the stump in place. While this is the most cost-effective and least labor-intensive choice, it isn’t always the most practical. If the tree was diseased, or if you intend to landscape, build, or improve the aesthetics of the area, stump grinding and stump removal is usually the better option.
Call in the Experts
To save yourself the hassle of removing a stump, you can always call in the experts to get the job done. Tree surgeons are well equipped to handle stumps and have the necessary tools to take care of the problem quickly and safely.
Tree surgeons know the best methods of tree care and can help advise which method is best suited for you.
Here at GGM Landscaping with have all the tools and equipment on hand to deal with your tree stump. Hassle free! Contact us today at 07946 322717.