Felling a mature tree that is showing signs of disease or other problems is a big job best left to professionals. However, it’s not the last step in the process. There’s still the matter of grinding the tree stump left behind, which is also best done with the help of professionals offering tree services in Palmyra, UT.
Learn why using the right stump grinding techniques is important for maintaining the look and health of your landscaping and property.
Preparing the Site for Grinding
After cutting down the trunk, professionals will inspect the leftover stump. A taller stump will take longer and require more work to eliminate with a grinding machine. If the stump is too tall, the professionals might choose to cut it shorter with a chainsaw before using the grinder on the remaining chunk.
Determining How Deep To Grind the Stump
Most of the time, the grinder will remove the stump to a depth of several inches below ground level to reduce the chances of the tree growing back.
Certain species of trees must be ground to a depth of 12 inches or greater to prevent them from resprouting. Others have shallow roots and allow for a grinding depth of 6 inches or less, which makes the process go faster.
Managing the Site Safely Before Grinding
Before deploying the equipment needed to grind a tree stump, the workers should ensure the site is safe for using the stump grinding machine. Professionals will remove any rocks or other items that could strike the blade while grinding the stump. If the homeowner has buried sprinklers or cables, these lines should be marked with flags before grinding starts. The cost of stump grinding increases significantly if the machine suffers damage or if the blade hits an underground sprinkler system.
Deciding How To Handle the Wood Chips
After grinding the stump and shallow roots, you’ll be left with wood chips and shavings where the stump previously existed. Some people will opt to have these chips hauled away, while others may want to leave them in the ground to use as mulch to help new turf sprout.
Professionals at Desert Willow Tree Care Will Deliver Efficient and Safe Tree Stump Grinding
Leaving a stump in the ground after removing a tree detracts from the aesthetics of your property and creates a tripping hazard. It also allows sprouts to form, requiring extra maintenance for the homeowner, defeating the purpose of getting rid of a problematic tree in the first place. The better option is hiring a professional to grind it, which is the fastest way to prepare the landscaping for its new purpose.
The experts at Desert Willow Tree Care have the experience and know-how to use the proper techniques to protect your yard and prevent the tree from regrowing sprouts. Our team offers a stump grinding vs. removal guide to help you decide which method is best for your needs, as each has its advantages. To schedule a consultation, call us today at (385) 450-5202.