If you had a tree removed over the winter — or you've been living with an old stump for years — early spring is the perfect time to get it ground down. The ground is firm, your lawn hasn't fully grown in yet, and you'll have a clean slate for spring landscaping. Here are the answers to the questions we hear most often.
What Is Stump Grinding?
Stump grinding uses a powerful machine with a rotating carbide-tipped wheel to chip away the stump and major surface roots, reducing them to a pile of wood chips. Unlike stump removal (which involves digging out the entire root ball), grinding is less invasive and much faster.
How Deep Do You Grind?
We typically grind 6–12 inches below ground level. This is deep enough to cover the area with soil, plant grass, or install a flower bed. If you're planning to plant a new tree in the same spot this spring, we can grind deeper — just let us know.
What Happens to the Wood Chips?
Grinding produces a mound of wood chips roughly twice the volume of the original stump. We can leave the chips for you to use as mulch in your spring garden beds, spread them in your landscape, or haul them away — your choice.
Can I Plant Over a Ground Stump?
Yes, but with a few caveats:
How Long Does It Take?
Most residential stumps take 30–60 minutes. Larger stumps (24 inches or more in diameter) or stumps with extensive surface roots may take longer. We'll give you a time estimate when we quote the job.
Will Grinding Kill the Roots?
Grinding removes the stump and the top portion of the root flare. The remaining roots will decompose naturally over 5–10 years. In some species (like crepe myrtle or chinaberry), root suckers may sprout from leftover roots as spring growth kicks in — we can advise on how to manage this.
How Much Does It Cost?
Pricing depends on the stump's diameter, accessibility, and root spread. Most residential stumps cost between $150 and $400. We always provide a free, no-obligation quote before starting work.
Got a stump that needs to go? Spring is the best time to take care of it before your yard fills in. Contact Twin Oaks at (337) 212-1987 for a free estimate. We serve all of Acadiana and can usually schedule grinding within a few days of your call.