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| In our previous post on the fallen chittamwood, we described the remaining stump. Now we have made the decision to remove it. Stumps are unsightly and take up valuable real estate in the landscape. They can provide a hazard to foot traffic and mowers. In spite of these downsides, not all stumps need to be removed. Those existing in low-visibility spots or out-of-the-way locations may be allowed to rot away naturally. The main reason to avoid removing stumps is the labor involved in doing so. Unless you have specialized equipment, this is often a difficult task. |
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| Removing this chittamwood stump required cutting six lateral roots. After all but two of these had been severed, the stump could be lifted by prying it up with a shovel. In that elevated position, chopping and sawing the last two roots was much easier. Unfortunately we broke an axe handle taking this stump out. Be very careful when taking on such strenuous work, so that in your exhausted state you do not injure yourself. Thankfully this chittamwood did not have a tap root; the area directly beneath the stump was simply dirt. |
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| After the stump has been removed, we have only a disturbed area of dirt that will quickly be colonized by grass and forbs. There will be some settling, so if we do not add a replacement specimen to this location, some fill dirt will be needed after weather settles the earth. |
