Trees are the ultimate natural decoration for residential and commercial properties, particularly when you plant native species that provide additional benefits such as shade and ecosystem equilibrium. Many trees have long lifespans that can easily outlast a couple of generations, but there will come a time when they must be removed for safety, yard health, code compliance, or development. Your options in this regard include stump removal or grinding, and getting them done in the fall is an excellent move in terms of preparing your property for winter.

Stump Grinding During Autumn

Let’s say a native tree, such as the American Sycamore, is severely damaged during a storm from high winds or lightning strikes. If an arborist determines that the tree will not recover, this native species is among the few that can go through the stump removal process. Sycamores have shallow root systems that make them less likely to penetrate deep into the ground, so a complete removal may not be too problematic. For many other species, however, stump grinding is better.

The difference between stump grinding and removal is that the former leaves the root system underground whereas the latter digs it out. The roots will eventually decay and provide nourishment to the soil and organisms that thrive below the surface. Using stump grinders, arborists can reduce it to a manageable height. If the yard ecosystem and the structure can benefit from stump grinding that goes below the surface, a little landscaping can cover the “bald spot” from one season to the next.

With the above in mind, many arborists recommend stump grinding during the fall for the two reasons.

Clearing the Green Areas Before Winter

Residential yards and commercial greenbelt spaces in our region change their appearances drastically during the winter. If you neglect landscaping during the fall, your green areas will look terrible for the winter. You want to take care of clearing, trimming, pruning, and stump grinding in autumn to promote a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing yard, especially as leaves start to fall.

Improving Lawn Health and General Safety

Stump grinding allows grass to grow more evenly in the areas they once occupied. Leaving a tree stump in place can attract pests like termites and carpenter ants. Grinding the stump down to a manageable or seamless height can help eliminate the potential of becoming a breeding ground for insects and critters, thus reducing the risk of infestations in your home or commercial establishments.

Untouched stumps can pose a hazard to people and pets, especially when they become covered in snow or ice. An important aspect of stump grinding is eliminating this risk, thus creating a safer environment around your property.

For all stump grinding and removal services, get in touch with E Z Tree Inc in Vallejo, CA today.