Whether a tree falls during a wild summer storm or you have tree services in Atlanta, GA, cut down a tree to make space, there’s one issue you have to address: What will you do with the stump left behind?
Tree stumps are more than an eyesore. In Atlanta’s warm and humid climate, they don’t take long to decay and become a fungal paradise. Many homeowners call us wanting to know how to get rid of rotting tree stumps, and we have several options.
Ideas for Eliminating an Unsightly Stump From Your Yard
Tree stumps naturally decompose over time, but how long that takes depends on the type of tree, its size, and the climate. The longer stump decomposition takes, the more likely it is to develop bacteria and fungi and attract pests you don’t want in your yard. With that in mind, we have several options to explore for how to get rid of rotting tree stumps.
Stump Grinding
Stump grinding is the fastest removal method, and most tree services offer it as part of the tree removal process.
A stump shreds the stump into small wood chips with a rotating cutting wheel. It eliminates all the wood above ground and several inches below the surface, killing the tree roots so they eventually decay without any regrowth. After grinding the stump, you can fill the hole with soil, creating a flat surface for grass or other landscaping.
Chemical Stump Removal
If you want to get rid of a stump without disturbing the soil and are willing to wait a few weeks for it to decompose, try a chemical stump remover. These products typically contain potassium nitrate, accelerating decay by breaking down the wood fibers. Once the stump becomes soft and spongy, it’s easier to remove.
Tree services chemically eliminate stumps by drilling holes in the wood, pouring in the remover, then waiting several weeks for it to do its work. Despite being a low-effort solution, it’s not ideal if you have kids or pets since the chemicals can be dangerous.
Natural Stump Decomposition
If you don’t want to risk using chemicals in your yard, you can speed up stump decomposition using natural rotting methods. As with chemicals, the process starts by drilling holes in the stump, then filling them with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer, Epsom salts, rock salt, compost, or cow manure. Any of these substances hasten fungi and bacteria breakdown and speed up rotting without risking exposure to harmful chemicals.
Let Life’s Tree Doctor Deal With Ugly Rotting Stumps
No matter how you decide to go about it, getting rid of a rotting stump is worth the effort. Beyond improving your yard’s appearance, it keeps pests at bay and frees up space for new landscaping projects.
If you live in the Atlanta, GA, area and want more information on how to get rid of rotting tree stumps, the importance of stump grinding, and soil restoration, get in touch with Life’s Tree Doctor at (678) 543-5443.
