This week let’s dive into an often-neglected aspect of creating the perfect landscape design for your family’s home: tree stumps. Some of my less experienced readers just beginning their landscaping journey may wonder, “What exactly is a tree stump?” The stump is the lowest portion above the ground of any tree & has many vital functions for its survival. Stumps have two primary purposes. The first is to help lift the tree closer to sunlight allowing the leaves to soak up the sun’s nutrients. The second is to house and protect the roots while facilitating & protecting the water delivery process. But what happens to these stumps once trees are cut down for uses such as timber or to clear space for new land development? Unfortunately, they are often left behind as eyesores on later-bought property. Tree stump removal may not sound glamorous, but it’s an important task that should be remembered. Leaving tree stumps on your property can lead to a wealth of issues, such as termite infestation and fungal growth, as well as being a physical hazard. Furthermore, they are ruining the overall look & aesthetic of your property! In this week’s blog post, we will discuss why you will want to uproot any eyesore tree stumps on your property & the best practices when doing so.

One can take many routes to address this issue, whether taking the challenge on yourself (which can be a bit of an extensive project) or hiring an experienced professional. Tree stump removal can be tricky, requiring high-powered tools, equipment, and a basic understanding of landscaping. If you are in one of Six Diamonds’ service areas (Western, CT; Dutchess County, NY; Putnam County, NY; Westchester County, NY.), we can help you get the job done. Our technicians are trained in the best techniques and methods to remove stumps safely.  As simple as it may seem, tree stump removal can be challenging. It is a time-consuming & physically demanding task, especially if you end up needing to outsource expensive equipment( Such as a stump grinder or digging tools). But don’t let that deter you! With a little bit of determination & the right tools, you can tackle this task like a pro. 

One of the first things to consider when removing the stump is the size and location. If the stump is small and easy to reach, you can handle it yourself. If the stump is large and in a tricky area, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Now you may be thinking, “ Well, what constitutes a large vs. a small stump?”. In my opinion, if a tree stump is bigger than 4’-6’ across, you should seek outside assistance. There are a few different methods for removing stumps, such as a stump grinder or manually digging out the base and roots. The latter approach, digging out the tree stump, is preferred. This method ensures that all of the stump has been removed, preventing regrowth, whereas grinding does not. Each method has its pros and cons based on the lasting length of service or prices, and your usage will depend on the stump in question, so you must consider and choose the correct method for your situation. If you decide to go ahead and attempt removing the stump on your own, safety precautions are crucial for the completion of this project. Always wear protective goggles & gloves. Be sure to read thoroughly through any instruction manuals for tools you may be using. And as always, be aware of your surroundings when using high-power tools.

Now, let’s talk about what happens after the stump is removed! I want you to think of this as a step towards the rebirth of your yard, think of all the endless possibilities this freed-up land holds. You can go ahead and decide just to cover this hole up, maybe plant some grass over as if fit never existed. Or, this could be the location of a beautiful newly planted tree to add a new layer to your yard. The decision is yours, but I highly recommend picturing yourself gazing at what could be a blossoming tree in the upcoming spring months. As we are at the height of winter, I have expressed in previous blogs the importance of these next few months in regard to planning your summer projects. Take this as your sign to address any unwanted tree stumps that are in your yard, and start making plans to address them. As always, Six Diamonds Tree Service is here to assist you with all of your tree service needs. We have over 25 years of experience helping our local communities with their landscaping needs. So, contact us today & let’s get your yard looking better than ever. Free, no-obligation estimates: (845) 878-7888. Service areas include Western, CT; Dutchess County, NY; Putnam County, NY; Westchester County, NY.