As valuable as landscaping trees may be to a home, there are reasons why some homeowners may choose to have a tree removed. Perhaps the tree is an impending danger to property or power lines. Perhaps it is in a spot where a home addition, storage building, or garden is to go. Perhaps the tree is dead or dying from the effects of inclement weather. If you have ever had a tree removed, whether intentionally or not, an unsightly stump may remain. If this is the case, there are several options for stump removal to consider.
Perhaps the most natural option for stump removal is to cover it with soil. This produces a natural decay (rot). It is a completely organic, environmentally friendly way to break down the stump. The potential drawback, however, is the length of time it takes for the process to take place. This can be reasonably estimated by the size of the stump to be removed. Typically, the larger the stump is, the longer it will take for it to decay naturally.
If waiting for a natural, organic decay is not an option due to any time constraints a homeowner may be facing, another possibility for stump removal is to use a commercial chemical to assist with the breakdown in a more expedient timeframe. Consistent applications according to the directions on the product can accelerate the breakdown process. Once the stump is soft enough, many attempt to remove it by burning it. However, there are several other considerations to bear in mind with this method.
First, even using a chemical in an attempt to accelerate the decay process, followed by a burn, may still take more time than the homeowner desires. Second, there are legalities to consider before burning a stump, such as acquiring a permit to burn and any “no burn” injunctions municipalities may enforce. Finally, there are safety concerns to consider. Would a burn somehow become uncontrolled? Is it near your home or that of a neighbor’s? Is it near other personal property, such as outbuildings, equipment, orlivestock? Is it near brush that could catch fire and spread easily? As this method certainly involves a certain degree of risk, it should not be approached with a flippant attitude.
The quickest method for having a tree stump removed is stump grinding. There is generally more expense involved with this method, but the equipment used by professionals is much more efficient than the other options discussed here. Consult an Austin tree trimming professional for more information regarding procedures and overall cost. Depending upon the size of the stump, in very little time at all, the stump can be completely removed. Of course, stump removal through grinding may be done for aesthetic purposes, but there is also some practicality to it. If a stump is removed by grinding below grade level, then new grass can grow and mower blades are less compromised. There is also a decreased risk for termites when a stump is removed.
When it comes to stump removal, these are some possibilities to consider. However, consulting an Austin tree removal specialist is a great idea before any action is taken. Solicit their expertise to become more well-informed about how to proceed. The information and intervention you receive may make the process less worrisome and time-consuming, especially when time constraints are an issue.
About the Author: Andrew Johnson is the owner of Central Texas Tree Care, a leading provider of Austin tree services in Central Texas. Certified ISA Austin arborist services including: tree trimming, tree removal, tree care and stump removal. For more information on Austin tree service please visit https://centraltexastr.wpengine.com.
