A Stump-Induced Depression: Why You May Regret Leaving Large Tree Stumps to Rot
Removing a large tree can free up a lot of space on a plot of land. However, unless you also plan to remove the stump, you should be wary about using that land for construction or landscaping. When it comes to trees, what you see is not what you get. There is a lot more to a tree than what you see above ground. This is especially true where large trees are concerned.
Part of a Tree Lies Below Ground
Some Australian native trees, such as the Moreton Bay Fig, possess huge canopies. For instance, the crown of a Moreton Bay Fig can grow to over 40 metres in width. While that is large, it is nothing compared to the root system that lies underground. Depending on where a tree is located, its root system can be 2-4 times wider than the tree's crown.
In fact, the root system of the average tree makes up about 20-30 percent of its total mass. While still alive, these roots provide a tree with stability and the means to locate water and nutrients. When dead and rotting beneath the ground, such a large number of roots later begin to pose problems that can render the land they inhabit unusable.
Rotted Tree Stumps Cause Depressions
Although it may take around 4-5 years for the tree roots to decompose, when they do, they will cause depressions to form in the ground. When a root ball is especially large, it is even possible for a sinkhole to form. As the roots decompose, they shrink, leaving cavities in the soil. These depressions can cause various problems.
For instance, nearby structures, fences or landscaping features may become unstable. This is both dangerous and costly. Moreover, a piece of land filled with depressions will be unsuitable for gardening. It will also become dangerous to anyone walking in the area as the depressions are a tripping hazard. Previously simple chores like mowing the lawn will also become difficult.
Hire a Tree Service to Remove the Remains
Large trees leave large root systems when cut down. Therefore, you should hire a tree service to remove both the stump and the roots. Once the stump and roots are gone, you can then fill in the resultant space with topsoil. Some tree services will even do this for you for an additional fee.
When removing a large tree, consider what is underground as well as what is above ground. Otherwise, your garden, yard or plot of land will leave you with a stump-induced sinking feeling.
