There are many distinct reasons why you may have needed to get rid of a tree stump by grinding it, by getting the professionals to do that for you. But if you have had to do this yourself, you may be wondering what to do with the wood chippings that the process has left behind.
The Tree Stump Grinding Process
With a stump grinding service, a stump is completely shredded or chipped into woodchips which will be combined with soil to form a mulch. This is as opposed to stump removal, when pulling out the remains of a tree by the roots leaving a hole to be filled. (Read more about the differences between the two here).
The good news is that the debris from stump grinding can be great for your garden, although you will need to use it properly. So do not just throw debris away as you can imagine, this is hardly the most environmentally friendly option.
Using the Mulch
Here are the assorted options in a little more detail:
Fill in the hole and cover up
The resulting mulch from the stump grinding is left in the hole where the stump once was, this can be dressed with topsoil and grass seed, this will encourage the growth of new grass where the tree used to be.
Add to your composting
The process of composting naturally breaks down organic materials and converts them into a nutrient-rich fertiliser. What the mulch can do is very similar, producing a product that is high in nutrients.
Use as mulch
Use the chippings/arisings from stump grinding as a mulch around trees, hedges and shrubs to reduce weeds, stimulate growth and keep soil damp while protecting it from fluctuations in temperature.
Apply it approximately 100-150mm (4-6 inches) four inches across the ground. With trees and woody shrubs it should not be in direct contact with the stem so a bare area of 150mm around the stem should be left. The mulch can then extend wherever desired, most effectively across the root base of the tree.
Here are some more Stump Grinding pointers:
- Stump grinding stops the regrowth on the tree, while some other methods of stump management may regenerate.
- After grinding, ensure all stones and stone chips have gone from your grass before you mow the lawn. Obviously, stones are potentially dangerous, and will, at best, blunt your lawn mower or equipment. StumpBusters will always leave the area clean and tidy to minimise this risk.
- For smaller stumps of approximately twelve inches across, you can spread the mulch across surrounding soil or a flower bed. Check pH regularly to see whether you need to reduce acidity by adding nitrogen.
Talk to StumpBusters
At StumpBusters, we are experienced stump grinding and stump removal experts with 30+ years experience. Working nationwide, we combine a local service feel with a national quality service.
We are fast, accurate and dependable as well as fully qualified, equipped and insured. Find your local operator today and get in touch. If we have the diameter of the stump for removal, plus a description of the access, we can typically supply a quote over the phone without having to visit you in person first.