Home / Roots after grinding
What happens to the roots after grinding?
Grinding takes the stump and the roots at the surface. The deeper roots stay and rot slowly. For most yards that is fine.
What is left
Grinders cut down from the top and out along visible roots. Anything below the cutting depth remains: the root plate, the thick roots and the fine network. They lose their food supply and decay over years.
When roots matter
- A new tree in the same spot, where leftover roots can block new growth.
- A patio, slab or pool where old roots may rot and settle.
- A drain or sewer line, where roots can grow in before they die.
Surface roots
Raised roots across the lawn can be ground too. They are priced separately, since they mean more machine time. Mark the ones you want gone before the crew starts.
Do roots keep growing?
Most do not regrow into a tree, but some species send up suckers from live root pieces. See our sprouting guide.
Questions
Will leftover roots damage my foundation?
Dead roots decay and do not push on a foundation. The risk is from living roots of the trees still standing nearby.
Can I plant over ground roots?
Yes for grass and shrubs. For a tree, move a few feet over or grind deeper.