You’ve finally said goodbye to that unattractive stump left behind after tree removal. Now what? Maybe you’re staring at that big hole in the ground and a pile of wood chips, wondering what you’re supposed to do next.
Below, learn what to do after tree stump grinding, then call us for tree services in Richland, MS.
Remove Debris From the Area
First things first, you’ll need to tidy up the area around the former stump. Stump grinding leaves behind a big mess of wood chips and soil. That mess doesn’t just look bad, but it can also smother plants if left unaddressed.
Use a rake to clean up loose soil and wood chips (you can use the chips as mulch later). If you spot any exposed roots, cut them out with clippers or a saw. These roots could cause the tree to regrow if not removed.
Fill the Hole
Stump grinding leaves a big hole in your yard, which is both unsightly and a tripping hazard. It’s best to fill it ASAP to prevent injuries.
Those wood chips you cleaned up earlier make for excellent hole-filling material. They’ll break down slowly over time and add nutrients to the soil during the decomposition process. Once you’ve filled the hole, add a layer of topsoil and tamp it down so it’s flush with the ground, then water the area thoroughly.
Add Soil Amendments
If you’re wondering what to do after tree stump grinding and are planning to replant in the area, have your soil tested to determine its pH and nutrient profile. Trees are greedy feeders, and they drain the soil of nutrients like nitrogen and potassium in no time flat. Some trees also alter the soil’s pH, making it inhospitable to other plants.
When you get your soil test results, add nutrients and amendments to make up for any deficiencies. Synthetic fertilizers provide quick results, but adding too much could harm your plants. Organic fertilizers are safer for the environment.
Tackle Any Pests or Diseases
If you removed your tree because of a pest infestation or disease, you’ll want to make sure that the problem is gone for good before replanting. Pests and diseases may lurk in the soil, waiting for their chance to make a comeback.
To dissuade pests, keep the area free of debris piles. Regularly rake up leaves and grass clippings so pests have nowhere to hide.
Replant Grass or Flowers
Now comes the fun part: deciding what you’re going to plant next. You could reseed the area with grass so it blends in with the rest of your yard or plant flowers in the spot where the tree used to be. You might also want to consider planting another tree. Once you’ve replanted, be sure to carefully monitor settling.
Call Us for More Ideas on What To Do After Tree Stump Grinding
By following these tips on what to do after tree stump grinding, you’ll have a beautiful yard that’ll flourish for years to come. Need tree services? Call Barone’s Tree Pros at (601) 345-8090. We offer stump grinding, winter tree pruning, debris cleanup, and more.