It can be exciting to design a new garden. The addition of new planting beds, new lawn, paving, outdoor seating, and well-planned borders can transform the appearance and feel of a property. However, addressing old tree stumps is not something that is often thought of before the big project starts.
A stump that is not removed can hinder planting, construction, drainage, and maintenance. Early removal is beneficial in providing a cleaner foundation and allows for greater flexibility in landscaping up front.
Stumps become a Constraint
While a remaining stump may seem like a minor issue on its own, it could be a significant constraint in a larger garden re-organization and planning stage. A stump that is located for a flower bed, pathway, lawn, retaining wall or seating area can mean that the original plans will have to be altered. The solution may also create awkward spaces and areas in the garden that are not being utilized.
When planning stump removal, landscaping together can mean the end of having to maneuver around obstacles after the job is done.
Remove Stumps before Planting
Tree stumps can take up a lot of space under the ground, and there are often roots that are far below the surface. This can be a problem for setting up new plants directly next to the area.
Old roots can also continue to rot in the ground, depending on the tree species and condition, and cause harm to the soil as they decompose. It helps to prepare the soil, help the ground structure, and to plant in the areas where plants can spread out before removing the stump.
Problems with Paths or Hard Landscaping
Patio, driveway, paths, steps, walls and other hard surface components are typical features of major landscaping. Carefulness is needed in preparing the ground for these projects. It may be difficult to excavate around a stump, and there may be an unsuitable part under consideration.
Proper stump removal prior to construction will help the contractor establish uniform ground levels and properly prepare the construction site. This is particularly critical if accurate levels and drainage are designed.
Think About Future Lawn and Garden Maintenance
Good landscaping is not solely based on what a garden looks like on the day it is completed. It should also be easy to take care of afterward. A partially or completely buried stump can become a problem when mowing, edging, planting, or operating garden tools.
Preparing an area free from stumps and weeds prior to sod placement or planting a new lawn allows for maintenance programs to be designed around a clean, usable area. This little preparation can make the garden a lot easier to work in later on.
Look for Regrowth and Ground Conditions
Some tree species may regrow from the roots or a stump. Just trimming a stump to the ground might not be enough to solve the problem. The right removal technique depends on the size, location, type, and environment of the stump. This can be determined by a professional assessment.
After the stump is removed, the space created might also require appropriate backfilling and preparation of ground conditions before the next landscaping process can take place. The method used will depend on the end use of the area.