WHAT IS STUMP GRINDING?

I’m Peter Johnson from Grind My Stump and I am going to share some insights from my personal experience working with tree stumps and answering some of the most common questions we receive.

At Grind My Stump, I take pride in servicing trees and assisting our customers. Over the years, I’ve created a series of guides on the fundamentals of tree-root grinding to help you understand the process better.

What depth can a stump grinder go to?

Typically, I grind stumps four to six inches below grade (ground level). If you need deeper grinding, I can arrange it, though it may increase the cost. The depth I can achieve depends on several factors, including the size of the stump-grinding blade, which has a diameter of about 10 inches and a specific range of motion.

Obstacles like fencing, concrete, brick, or rock near the stump can limit how deep I can grind. The grinder is designed to handle wood and dirt but not materials like metal or stone. Nearby structures like swimming pools, patios, garden sprinklers, and buried hoses also affect access to the roots. I always recommend knowing the location of underground structures, such as irrigation lines, to avoid damage.

What gets left behind after a tree stump is ground?

When I grind a stump, the process generates mulch made of tree material and soil. This mulch often has a greater volume than the original tree trunk. It’s a bit like grating a block of cheese—the final product takes up more space.

This mulch is quite nutritious compared to other types of mulch and can be used for compost or flower beds. After grinding, I typically push the mulch back into the ground (a process known as backfilling), though there’s usually a sizable amount left over. This extra mulch can be used in your garden, and after it settles, the area becomes suitable for planting sod or flowers. If needed, I can also bag the mulch for you as an additional service.

Does the tree return after the stump is ground?

Even after stump removal, some tree species can sprout new shoots from the remaining roots. These shoots eventually stop growing as the roots exhaust their stored energy. An effective alternative to commercial root killers is white vinegar.

Is it possible to replant after the tree stump is ground?

Many clients ask about replanting in the same spot after removing a tree. It’s often challenging for a new tree to establish itself in the same area due to the old root system and potential diseases. If replanting is desired, I usually recommend finding a different location far from the removed tree to avoid these issues.

Is every tree stump suitable for stump grinding?

In some cases, like when a tree has fallen or is infected with root rot, grinding can be difficult. The grinder’s arm might not reach the center of the stump, especially if there’s a lot of root material above ground. Weather conditions, such as wet ground, can also affect the efficiency of stump grinding. Before starting, I always assess the specific circumstances to provide an accurate estimate and schedule the service accordingly.

What is the cost of tree stump grinding?

The cost of stump grinding depends on the size and location of the stump, as well as the depth required. Generally, small stumps cost between £100 and £200, medium stumps between £200 and £400, and large stumps between £400 and £600. Providing details and images via our quick quote form can help me give you an accurate quote. In some cases, I may need to visit the site to evaluate the stumps.

How can I measure my tree stump?

To measure your stump, consider its length and width, including any above-ground roots. Measure from the dirt at one edge to the dirt at the opposite edge, taking the average of multiple measurements for accuracy. This helps determine the area that needs to be ground.

Will the stump grinder reach my tree stump?

My standard stump grinder is about seven feet long and three feet wide, with an oval blade that grinds the wood. It’s designed to fit through standard doors, but older or narrow doors might be a problem. The machine’s weight can also prevent it from reaching certain areas without causing damage. If needed, I can use a smaller grinder, but this might increase the cost.

What if I just leave my tree stump?

You don’t have to grind or remove a stump after tree removal. Some clients prefer to leave it as a plant stand, table base, or a natural element in their yard. Over time, stumps can break down and become rich organic material, though they can also attract fungi, insects, and other creatures. Regrowth can occur for years after cutting, but methods like drilling holes and filling them with Epsom salt can help speed up the decay process, though they can be toxic to surrounding vegetation.

If you have any more questions or need a Surrey stump grinding quote, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help with all your stump grinding needs.