Stump Grinding: What to Expect

What is Stump Grinding?

Stump grinding is a method of removing tree stumps using a powerful machine that chips away the wood with a rotating cutting disk. Unlike stump removal, which requires digging out the entire root ball, grinding is faster, less invasive, and more economical.

The Stump Grinding Process

Step 1: Assessment and Preparation

Before grinding begins, the professional will:

• Assess stump size and accessibility
• Check for underground utilities (call 811)
• Remove rocks and debris around the stump
• Trim the stump to ground level if it's very tall

Step 2: Grinding

The grinding process itself:

• A specialized stump grinder is positioned over the stump
• The cutting wheel grinds the stump into small wood chips
• The grinder moves back and forth, progressively grinding deeper
• Standard grinding goes 6-12 inches below ground level

Step 3: Cleanup and Finishing

After grinding is complete:

• A pile of wood chips and soil remains
• Chips can be hauled away or left for use as mulch
• The hole can be backfilled with the chips or topsoil
• The area is left clean and ready for landscaping

Stump Grinding vs. Stump Removal

What to Do with the Wood Chips

Stump grinding produces a pile of wood chips mixed with soil. Here are your options:

Use as Mulch

Wood chips make excellent mulch for garden beds. Spread them 2-4 inches deep around trees, shrubs, and in garden beds. Note: Fresh chips can temporarily tie up nitrogen in the soil as they decompose, so keep them away from vegetable gardens for the first year.

Fill the Hole

Many homeowners use the chips to backfill the hole. Add topsoil on top for a finished look, or let the area settle naturally.

Haul Away

Most stump grinding services can haul away the chips for an additional fee if you don't want them.

Compost

Add wood chips to your compost pile. Mix with nitrogen-rich materials (grass clippings, food scraps) to speed decomposition.

After Stump Grinding: Growing Grass

Want to plant grass where the stump was? Here's how:

1. Remove excess wood chips from the area
2. Add quality topsoil to fill the depression
3. Wait 2-3 weeks for settling, then add more soil if needed
4. Rake smooth and seed with appropriate grass variety
5. Water regularly until grass is established

What About the Roots?

A common concern: what happens to the roots left in the ground after grinding?

They Decompose Naturally

Roots left in the soil will decompose over several years, returning nutrients to the soil. This is a natural process that doesn't typically cause problems.

Possible Issues

• Sprouts – Some species may send up sprouts. These can be mowed over or spot-treated with herbicide
• Surface roots – Visible roots near the surface may need to be ground down
• Settling – As roots decompose, soil may settle slightly

Cost Factors for Stump Grinding

Stump grinding costs depend on several factors:

• Stump diameter – Larger stumps cost more (often priced per inch)
• Root exposure – Visible surface roots add to the work
• Accessibility – Hard-to-reach stumps may cost more
• Number of stumps – Multiple stumps usually qualify for discounts
• Cleanup options – Hauling chips away adds cost

How to Prepare for Stump Grinding Service

1. Clear items away from the stump area
2. Mark any underground sprinklers or utilities
3. Ensure access for equipment (gates, fences)
4. Decide what you want done with the chips
5. Note any underground utilities or irrigation