stump grinding

[coralbelle]

I need to have a birch tree cut down soon. When I've gotten quotes they mention having the stump ground (grinded) . Is this necessary? It seems like this is more expensive and the tree trimmer made me feel ignorant for not wanting to. Thanks for the input , Coralbelle. (P.S.- not that I'd ever give our hard earned $ to anyone who makes me feel ignorant)

[Newt]

You gave me a giggle with this.* :)* If your tree stump will be in your lawn and you want to plant grass you would want to have the stump ground.* If this is in an area where the stump won't be a problem then you can leave it.* Ask to have the stump cut as close to the ground as possible.* It can take several years for the stump to rot away and sprouts will probably appear for 3, 4 or 5 years from the roots.* Grinding the stump won't change the sprout situation.

This would be a large tree stump.




This would be one cut close to the ground.



Grinding a tree stump.



You can help rot the stump if you don't care that it's above ground.
http://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/gt/stump/stump.html

Good pics of before and after grinding.
http://www.treeboss.net/tree_stumps.htm

I'm curious what they want to charge you for grinding the stump.

Newt

[coralbelle]

Hey Newt, the last guy who came out quoted me $450 for removal and grounding of the stumps. You know how birch trees grow in that v formation. I know this sounds sexist but the last guy talked to me like I was some dumb woman and why wasn't he speaking to the man of the house. He didn't even give or send a written quote. I guess I scared him off when how dare I ask* about not grinding the stumps! I* figured knowledge is power so I can feel confident when the next company comes to give me a quote. I 'm thinking that the birch is pretty soft and not that large so I can whack it with a sledge hammer and break it after they cut it. Thanks for the input. BTW I'm still looking for the cause of the dying pine. Always, Coralbelle

[Newt]

Ah, more info helps.* I've done this before with trees.* What they charge depends on how easy the site is to get to, how difficult or easy removal would be (are there trees or structures nearby that make removal difficult) how close to the removal site equipement can be brought, etc.* Stump grinding is usually an additional $50 to $100 based on several factors as well.* How far down do you want it ground, can a large grinder easily be brought to the site, would it have to be a small or hand held grinder used, etc.

You want to get 3 references and check them. Also check to make sure they have insurance to cover you and their men.* I had 5 trees removed from my property and it's a very tight sight. A boom was needed to lift the trunks over the house!* When they left, not one leaf was left on the ground and everything was cleaner then when they got here!* I couldn't have been more pleased.* I did get a written estimate, but most everything with this oldtimer is done on a handshake.

Newt