When a tree is removed, many homeowners choose to leave the stump behind, assuming it will simply break down naturally over time. However, old and decaying tree stumps can create a surprising number of issues in a garden, ranging from structural problems to safety concerns. In areas such as Folkestone, where gardens are often well-used and outdoor spaces are valuable, addressing an old stump promptly can make a significant difference to both the appearance and usability of your property.
At Folkestone Tree Surgeons, we help homeowners across Folkestone and the wider Kent region manage and remove old stumps safely and effectively.
Old Stumps Can Harbour Pests and Unwanted Wildlife
As tree stumps decay, they become an ideal environment for insects, fungi, and small animals. This can quickly turn into a nuisance, especially when pests begin spreading into nearby plants or even towards the home.
Common pest problems include:
- Wood-boring insects nesting in the stump
- Ants and termites colonising soft, rotting wood
- Fungal spores spreading to healthy trees or shrubs
- Small animals seeking shelter within the hollowed base
Removing the stump eliminates these habitats and protects the rest of your garden from infestation.
Fungal Rot Can Spread to Nearby Trees and Plants
A decaying stump often becomes infected with fungi, including species that can cause root rot. These fungi don’t just stay contained — they can spread underground, affecting the health of surrounding vegetation.
Signs of fungal spread may include:
- Mushrooms growing around the stump
- Discolouration or decay in nearby tree roots
- Weakening or dieback in adjacent shrubs
By removing the stump, you protect the wider landscape from the effects of fungal and root diseases.
Old Stumps Create Trip Hazards and Safety Risks
One of the biggest concerns with old stumps is the safety hazard they create. They may sit slightly above ground level, become hidden under long grass, or produce new shoots that mask the stump.
This can lead to:
- Trips and falls in busy garden areas
- Hazards for children playing outdoors
- Obstacles when mowing or maintaining the lawn
A garden free from stumps is not only safer but easier to maintain.
Stumps Interfere with Garden Design and Landscaping
A decaying stump can disrupt future garden plans. Whether you want to lay turf, install a patio, create a flower bed, or redesign the space, the stump will always be in the way.
These stumps often:
- Make the ground uneven
- Prevent planting or construction in that area
- Cause soil drainage issues
- Reduce available usable space
Removing the stump restores flexibility and allows you to design the garden the way you want.
Regrowth and Suckers Can Become a Persistent Problem
Even when a tree has been cut down, the root system can remain active for a long time. Many species attempt to regrow, producing multiple shoots from the old stump or surrounding soil.
Left unmanaged, this can lead to:
- Dense, unwanted regrowth
- Nutrient competition with other plants
- Ongoing maintenance to keep shoots under control
Stump removal or grinding permanently stops this unwanted regrowth.
Old Stumps Can Damage Lawns and Affect Soil Health
As a stump decays, it alters the soil structure around it. The breakdown of wood can attract fungi, create hollows underground, and produce an uneven surface. This can affect how water drains and how plants grow in that area.
Homeowners often notice:
- Sunken patches in the lawn
- Poor grass growth around the stump
- Increased weed development
Removing the stump gives your lawn or planting area the best chance to recover properly.
Stump Removal Improves the Look of Your Garden
Beyond practical concerns, old stumps can simply make a garden look untidy or neglected. Removing them instantly improves the appearance of the space, making it more welcoming and easier to maintain.
Whether you’re preparing to sell your home or simply want a better outdoor environment, stump removal offers a quick visual improvement.
Why Professional Stump Removal Is Essential
Removing a stump is more complex than it seems. The root system can be extensive, and manual removal often causes disruption to surrounding areas. Professional stump grinding ensures the stump is removed efficiently, with minimal disturbance to the garden.
At Folkestone Tree Surgeons, we use specialist equipment to grind stumps down below ground level, creating a clean, smooth surface ready for replanting, lawn restoration, or landscaping.
Conclusion
Old, decaying tree stumps can lead to pest issues, fungal spread, trip hazards, regrowth, and disruption to garden plans. Removing them not only improves safety and appearance but also protects your property from long-term problems.
If you’re based in Folkestone or the surrounding areas of Kent and want to eliminate an old stump from your garden, Folkestone Tree Surgeons is here to assist. Contact us today to arrange a professional stump assessment and restore the health and usability of your outdoor space.
Call us on: 01303 765 498
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