There could be several reasons why trees on your property need to be cut down. After the tree has been felled, the stump remains—a problem that can be resolved with stump grinding. But if left on the property, tree stumps can be unsightly and dangerous to you and others, especially when snowfall covers them and makes them hard to spot. Below are a few reasons to clear out those stubborn stumps.

3 Reasons to Schedule Stump Grinding in Winter

1. Safety Hazards

Tree stumps, particularly ones that are snow-covered or hidden by grass and shrubs, are accidents waiting to happen. Even if trees are cut near to the ground, a stump can still trip someone and cause them to fall over, especially those unfamiliar with your grounds or yard. When this results in injuries, the liability will fall on you as the property owner. Let a professional handle the stump grinding instead of doing it on your own; grinders can be dangerous in the hands of someone who is not trained in their proper use.

2. Infestations & Disease

It takes a while for tree stumps to decompose, especially if they still have their roots intact. As they decay, they are likely to attract pests like termites, ants, beetles, and other wood-boring pests. Infestation may not be a concern right away, but when these pests run out of food, they’ll eventually eat away at your property. In the winter, stumps become breeding grounds for mold and receptacles of fungi because of moisture from snow and ice. Moreover, fungus can spread diseases to other plants and nearby healthy trees on your property, which prevents them from flourishing when spring rolls around.

3. Continued Growth

Even if it has been cut down, a tree can still sprout new growth with its undamaged, expanding roots come springtime. You can get rid of new shoots and saplings by using herbicide, but the latter can affect nearby vegetation as well. Instead, opt for stump grinding in winter to destroy the roots and reduce leftover trees into wood chunks and dirt.

Take care of stumps in your yard with stump grinding from Carlos Tree Service in Anchorage, AK. With their team of licensed arborists, they’re one of the leading providers of professional tree services, including stump removal and excavation, throughout the area for over 20 years. Call (907) 522-6049 to schedule an appointment, and visit them online to learn more about their services.