Tree stumps pose a tripping hazard, take up valuable space, and diminish the look of your backyard. Fortunately, stump grinding is an effective method of removing a problem stump once and for all. While some homeowners choose to discard grindings when the work is complete, the leftover material can be useful. Here are a few ideas to try.

How Can Wood From Stump Grinding Be Used?

1. For Composting

Composting is good for the environment and lets you make your own nutrient-rich fertilizer. Find a sizable plastic container and add stump grindings to it, as well as other organic materials, like fruit peels, vegetable scraps, nutshells, leaves, and shredded newspaper.

Let the compost pile rest for about four months, stirring it occasionally to encourage decomposition. You'll know it's ready when the materials are no longer identifiable, and the compost looks similar to soil in color and consistency.

2. For Mulching

Mulching helps plants retain moisture and heat, prevents weed growth, and improves soil quality. Organic mulches include grass clippings, straw, leaves, and tree bark.

When using stump grindings, it's best to apply the material around any plants that are already well established, as its ability to deter weeds can stunt new plant growth. For the best results, lay mulch at the beginning of spring before weeds have the opportunity to grow.

3. For Pathways

Wood chips are comfortable underfoot, so they're an excellent material to create paths throughout the yard. Making walkways will help keep guests off the grass and away from the flowerbeds.

Mow the grass where you'd want the path to be, getting as close to the soil as possible. Spread a layer of wood chips about six inches thick, keeping the extras on hand in case the pathway gets sparse over time.

If you want to remove a stump and use the leftover material for these projects, turn to our team at LPN Landscaping & Tree Service LLC, in Oahu, HI. We've provided homeowners throughout the island with reliable stump grinding and landscaping services since 1988. Visit the website for more information about our services, or call (808) 677-6746 to request a free estimate.