Why grind the stump?
- Safety and mowing. Stumps are trip hazards and mower-blade killers.
- Resprouting. Many species send up suckers from the stump and roots for years.
- Pests and fungus. Decaying stumps attract insects and wood-decay fungi.
- Your space back. Lawn, garden beds, patios or a new tree.
How stump grinding works
A stump grinder uses a spinning wheel of carbide teeth to chew the stump into wood chips, working back and forth until it is below ground level. Surface roots near the stump can be ground as well. Grinding is far less destructive to your lawn than digging a stump out.
- Locate utilities. Underground lines get marked through Missouri One Call (811) before we grind.
- Grind below grade. Deep enough to cover with soil and seed or sod.
- Your choice of cleanup. Leave the grindings to settle and use as mulch, or have them hauled and backfilled with topsoil.
Planning to replant?
Tell us at the estimate. Grindings and old roots break down slowly, so for a new tree we recommend planting a few feet off the old stump location, or removing the grindings and bringing in fresh soil.
Bundle it. Grinding the stump at the same visit as a tree removal saves a trip and usually costs less than scheduling it separately.
Stump Grinding FAQ
How deep do you grind?
Below grade, so the area can be covered with soil and seeded, sodded or mulched. If you need extra depth for a patio, path or planting, tell us and we'll grind for that use.
Can you get a grinder into a fenced backyard?
Usually, yes. Compact grinders fit through many standard gates. Mention your gate width when you call and we'll plan around it.
Do you grind stumps from trees someone else removed?
Absolutely. We grind old stumps of any age.