Trees can be unpredictable and can sometimes have unusual growing patterns. The root of a tree is a good example of this. Most tree roots will go deep underground to where they can access as many nutrients and minerals. In some cases, the roots can, however, develop close to the surface of the ground and they might start protruding when the root becomes mature and thick.
Surface roots can be a nuisance because they can get in the way of your lawnmower, or garden structures, or they can intervene with your garden beds or walkways. Thanks to tree stump grinders, it is now a lot easier to get rid of a tree stump but can you use a stump grinder to clear away those surface roots so you won’t have to dig them up? Let’s take a look.
What Happens to Roots After Stump Grinding
Stump grinders will grind and turn an entire tree stump into small wood chips. Professional stump grinders will cut all the way into the root ball and destroy part of the root ball a few inches below the ground surface.
These machines are not designed for digging and, as such, cannot remove roots that are below the ground surface. In most cases, the leftover roots will quickly die and decay because the tree stump is removed.
On rare occasions, or rather with a selected few tree species, the roots can regenerate and sprout a new tree if enough nutrients remain stored in the root. This is, however, unlikely, especially if you have a good stump grinding expert helping you.
After a couple of weeks, the leftover roots will decay and turn into healthy nutrients for the soil.
Can Surface Roots Be Removed with a Stump Grinder?
Yes, surface roots protruding from the ground can be removed without the help of a stump grinder. These grinders are designed to chip away any type of wood and should have no trouble cutting up tree roots.
The stump grinders are also designed to cut the tree stump a few inches below the ground surface and can even cut roots or root balls a little bit deeper if you clear the soil around the roots away a bit.
You can easily turn all of those unsightly surface roots into mulch and the dents or holes left behind can be filled out with soil after which you can re-lay grass all over the area again.
When Can a Stump Grinder be Used to Remove Roots
Stump grinders can remove any type of root that is exposed or close to the surface of the ground. They can remove any type of root of any thickness and can even remove some underground roots if you are able to clear away some surrounding soil.
When Can’t a Stump Grinder be Used to Remove Roots
These machines are not designed for digging and cannot be used to get rid of roots covered by the earth. You also won’t be able to use a stump grinder on roots that run close to a plumbing or power line since this can have devastating results. Roots that run directly next to a building or structure can also be challenging to clear away with a bulky stump grinder, especially if the machine cannot get close enough to grind the roots.
Professional Stump Tree Stump Grinding in Geelong
If surface roots are getting in the way of your garden chores or garden structures then it is time to give Pete Stump Grinding a call. Our skilled team can get rid of any protruding roots for you and will leave you with a perfectly level property where you can garden and work to your heart’s content.
At Pete Stump Grinding, we offer expert tree and stump removal services, ensuring your property is free of unwanted stumps and debris. Curious about the cost of stump removal? Our affordable solutions have you covered. We also specialize in tree stump grinding in Barwon Heads and tree stump removal in Bell Post Hill, delivering professional results every time.