Removing a tree stump from the ground, if not executed by specialists and with the tight machinery, can create damage to your property and the environment. It might also make you lose a lot of time if you try it on your own. However, leaving a stump on your property has disadvantages that you should think about. Maybe you have not yet made the effort to think about these downsides, either by neglect, or because you wanted to save money, or due to the fact that the stump has aesthetic qualities in your eyes. Some people do transform them into artworks! Nonetheless, we suggest you take into consideration the following elements.
Proliferation of pests
A tree stump left in the ground will gradually rot, and fungus will probably show up on its surface sooner or later. And some fungi smell really bad! An environment like this can attract insect pests, such as carpenter ants. This might not worry you too much if the stump is not close to your home. Nevertheless, be aware that along with their main nest, these ants develop several secondary nests that can be located near your home. Do you want to take he the risk of these insects getting into the walls of your house and creating expensive damage?
A rotting stump, invaded by fungi and bugs, will eventually draw in numerous unwanted animals, like skunks and raccoons. We suppose we do not need to point out all the negative aspects of their presencefor your property, your family and your pets…
Tree regrowth
As the tree stump is decomposing externally, the roots still absorb nutrients from the soil, which can create new shoots to show up on the surface. You can either choose to cut the regrowth year after year or to eliminate the stump once and for all.
Space and safety
A stump left in the ground can lead to accidents, particularly if the grass or other plants close to it have reached a certain height. The stump becomes more difficult to notice in the landscape, which might cause people to bump into it and hurt themselves, especially children having fun and running close by. Grinding the stump of a removed tree will prevent unfortunate mishaps and create more space on your property, which is particularly important in cities where lots are oftentimes smaller. It will be easier to mow the lawn, and you will have more space to add plants or create a new project. For instance, it might be just the space you needed to construct a larger patio, set up a swimming pool or enlarge your vegetable garden! Take into consideration that these projects can add to the value of your home. Even if you do not build something new, the simple decision of getting rid of the stump can have an impact on the value of your property. If potential buyers are under the impression that you have been negligent by leaving a stump in the ground, they may think that you have also ignored other aspects of the maintenance of your home, which might affect their choice to buy or not.
Doing it yourself?
If you are considering removing a tree stump with the help of chemicals, you should know that they represent a substantial danger to the immediate and farther environment through groundwater. There will be negative effect right away and in the long term, whether you are conscious of it or not. These chemicals are toxic to plants, wild as well as domestic animals, in addition to humans. You probably do not want your children or your dog to be in contact with these toxins. This is why most cities forbid their usage completely. If you are thinking of using a power shovel or tractor to attempt to get rid of the stump, know that this equipment typically creates unnecessary damage to the property, anywhere the machinery needs to make its way through. Also, the hole created by this procedure is surprisingly big. You will have to fill it with a lot of soil. When you hire Shawnee tree pros for a tree stump removal and grinding intervention, you make sure that it is accomplished with specialized machinery and tools, which avoids damage to your property and creates only a small hole where the tree was. You might even want to take the opportunity to ask our knowledgeable arborists advice on which new tree to plant! Tree trimming