Stump Grinding in Washington, NJ

What does stump grinding involve?

Stump grinding uses a machine with a spinning, toothed wheel that chews the stump into small chips. We grind six to twelve inches below the ground, deeper if you plan to plant or build there, and follow the larger surface roots out a short way. The chips can fill the hole or be hauled off. Narrow grinders fit through most backyard gates, so tight lots aren't a problem.

When should a stump be ground out?

Grind a stump when it's a trip hazard, when you keep hitting it with the mower, or when you want to use that part of the yard. Stumps from maples, black locust, and tree of heaven often send up new sprouts for years, and grinding stops most of that. It's also smart to grind a stump that's close to the house before it rots and draws insects.

Why do old stumps cause problems?

A stump left in the ground slowly decays, and rotting wood attracts carpenter ants and termites. Fungus can spread from a decaying stump to roots of nearby trees. A large hardwood stump can take many years to break down on its own, and during that time it's in the way. If you're dealing with a standing tree that's on its way out, it's usually best to have the tree itself removed first and grind the stump the same day.

What affects the cost of stump grinding?

Stump grinding cost depends on the stump's width, how many large surface roots spread out from it, and how deep you want it ground. Rocky soil slows the machine and wears down its teeth. Access matters if the grinder has to go through a gate or down a slope. Hauling away the chips instead of leaving them in the hole also adds to the job.

Should I grind the stump or dig it out completely?

For lawns, gardens, and replanting nearby, grinding is enough and does far less damage to the yard. Digging out the entire stump and root ball is only needed when something like a foundation, footing, or new pool is going in that exact spot. That work takes an excavator and leaves a large hole to fill.

Stump grinding questions

Will the roots keep growing after the stump is ground?

Most roots die once the stump is ground, because they can no longer get energy from the tree. Some species, like tree of heaven and black locust, can still push up sprouts from roots for a season. Mowing or pulling those sprouts usually ends it.

How long does stump grinding take?

An average residential stump takes under an hour to grind. Very large stumps or ones with big spreading roots can take longer. We can often do several stumps in one visit.

Can I plant a new tree where the old stump was?

You can, but it's better to plant a few feet to one side. The old spot is full of wood chips and decaying roots that tie up nutrients as they break down. If you want to use the same spot, remove the chips and fill with good topsoil first.