There are many reasons why people choose to plant trees on their property, which include to improve the appearance of the landscape and to provide shade. It's often necessary for homeowners to contact a tree service to trim their trees, care for diseased trees and to remove trees. We aren't affiliated with tree service professionals but we think homeowners should understand the importance of tree specialists and why their services are needed. We researched tree care and talked to professionals in the tree service industry to obtain the information we needed for this blog. As you read these articles, you'll learn when it's necessary to contact a tree service to maintain and care for your trees.
The Importance of Tree Services for Maintenance and Care
Stump Removal On Cleared Land
Lynn Lee
Stumps are one of the biggest challenges when it comes to clearing land. There are several options available, though, so the challenge can be overcome.
Leveling Options
When it comes to stumps, there are three options — dig, grind, or burn. Digging requires heavy equipment like backhoes to get under the stumps and lift them out. It's time-consuming, but relatively straightforward if you have access to the proper equipment and need the stumps removed entirely. Grinding also uses equipment to grind the stump down well below the soil surface. This is quick and easy, but it does leave some of the stump and roots in the ground, which can be an issue depending on the usage goals for the land.
Burning is the least ideal method and it isn't legal everywhere. Stumps are lit on fire and allowed to burn out. The result is full or near full removal, but it can take several days for a stump to finish burning. Further, green stumps from recently felled trees are difficult to light and they burn poorly.
Disposal Methods
If you opt to pull out the stumps, then you must consider disposal. Burying stumps on site is not recommended, even if it is legal. The stumps will decompose slowly and cause the ground to sink. If the site will be built upon, this can lead to issues with structural integrity.
Another option is to burn the stumps in a large slash pile, but this again poses an issue in regards to local legal requirements as well as getting green stumps to burn well and quickly. Some landfills will take stumps, and in some areas, there are special "stump dumps" specifically for collecting stumps and other forestry items from cleared land. Of course, you must be prepared to pay the dumping fee.
Site Use Ideas
There is another option — using the stumps on site. Mulching stumps is a possibility. It is a bit more time-consuming and requires heavier equipment compared to mulching tree trunks and branches, but it is possible and it solves the disposal issue.
Mulch can sometimes be sold or given away. You may also be able to use it on-site, such as in later landscaping or to improve soil structure. Of course, mulch should only be turned into the soil after consultation with a soil engineer so you can make sure it doesn't affect the stability for future projects.
Contact a land clearing service if you have a lot of trees and stumps to deal with.
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