Ask Our Arborists FAQs about Stump Grinding & Removal in Regina

So, the tree’s gone… but the stump’s still there, smack in the middle of your lawn like a wooden tombstone. It could also attract pests, trip up your lawn mower, and create hurdles for your landscaping plans.

At Green Drop, our Regina-based arborists get tons of questions about stump grinding and removal, so we’ve rounded up the ones we hear most often and are answering them for you. 

Let’s get into it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stump Grinding and Removal

1. Do I Really Need to Remove a Tree Stump?

It’s tempting to leave it alone (after all, it’s just a stump), but that leftover trunk can cause more trouble than you think.

• Stumps are accidents waiting to happen, especially for kids and lawn equipment.
• Rotting wood is a haven for ants, termites, and other pests, such as beetles.
• Mowing around it is a hassle, and it can block root space for nearby grass and plants.
• Some tree species can actually sprout new growth from the stump.

2. What’s the Difference Between Stump Grinding and Stump Removal?

Great question, and one of the most common we hear. If you want a more detailed answer, check out this blog here (Stump Removal vs. Stump Grinding), where we’ve broken it down pretty well. 

Basically:

• Stump grinding involves using a machine to grind the stump down below ground level (typically 6–12 inches deep), leaving the roots to decay naturally over time.
• Stump removal, on the other hand, is taking out both the stump and its root system. This often requires heavy equipment, more time, and is a bit messy.

3. How Deep Does Stump Grinding Go?

Most stump grinding goes 6 to 12 inches below ground, which is deep enough to cover the area with soil and replant grass or groundcover. If you’re planning to replant a new tree in the same spot, we may recommend grinding deeper or removing some of the surrounding roots to improve growing conditions.

4. Can I Plant a New Tree in the Same Spot After Stump Grinding?

Technically, yes—but it’s not always ideal. When a stump is ground out, it leaves behind a pocket of decomposing wood and old roots. That means loose, nitrogen-hungry soil, which isn’t exactly great for a young tree. If you’re set on planting in the same location, we recommend:

• Removing excess wood chips
• Backfilling with quality soil
• Choosing a smaller tree or shrub with shallow roots
• Planting a few feet away from the original stump zone 

5. How Much Does Stump Grinding Cost in Regina?

It depends on a few things, mainly the size of the stump, how accessible it is, and whether you’ve got multiple stumps to tackle. The best way to find out? Get a free estimate from our arborists. We’ll size it up and give you a transparent, no-obligation quote.

6. Will Stump Grinding Remove the Roots Too?

Not entirely, but that’s usually okay.

Stump grinding focuses on removing the visible part of the stump and grinding it down below ground level. Some roots may stay underground, where they’ll naturally decompose over time. In most cases, they won’t cause issues.

7. What Happens to the Wood Chips After Grinding?

Stump grinding creates a surprising amount of wood mulch, and you’ve got a few options:

• Leave them in place to naturally decompose (great for garden beds or low-traffic areas).
• Spread them out as mulch around trees or shrubs.
• Ask for removal, in which case, we can haul them away if you’d rather not deal with the mess.

8. How Long Does the Process Take?

Most stumps take between 30 minutes and a couple of hours to grind, depending on the size, wood hardness, and accessibility.

Got one medium-sized stump in a flat, open yard? That’s a quick job. 

Multiple stumps in tight corners? That’s going to take a bit longer.

9. Is Stump Grinding Safe for My Lawn and Surrounding Trees?

Yes, when it’s done right, stump grinding is low-impact and lawn-friendly.

Our arborists use professional-grade grinders designed to minimize turf damage. We carefully position the machine to prevent harm to nearby trees or root systems.

Before grinding, we:

• Check for underground utilities (we call to locate them for you)
• Assess slope, drainage, and any landscape features
• Use boards or mats if needed to protect delicate turf or garden beds
• Bottom line: your lawn stays safe, and your stump disappears.

10. What Kind of Equipment Is Used?

We use commercial-grade stump grinders that are powerful enough to handle large, mature stumps. They have to be compact enough to fit through most backyard gates in Regina.

Depending on your yard, we might use:

• Self-propelled machines for tricky terrain
• Tow-behind grinders for larger, open-access areas
• Handheld tools for tight or sensitive spots

11. Can I Grind the Stump Myself?

You can, but let’s be real. Professionals are your best bet to do this right; DIY stump grinding is no walk in the park.

• Rental grinders are usually underpowered for large stumps
• They’re loud, messy, and can be dangerous without training
• You’ll still need to haul away the mulch and clean up the site

12. What Should I Do Before and After Stump Grinding?

Before:

• Clear away rocks, branches, or yard décor near the stump
• Make sure we have gate access if it’s in the backyard
• Water the area lightly if the ground is rock hard—it helps with grinding

After:

• Decide what you want to do with the mulch (leave it, use it, or have us haul it)
• Fill in the hole with clean soil if you’re replanting (grass and shrubs only) or levelling the area
• Avoid replanting right away unless you’ve amended the soil (we’ll advise you)

13. Does Stump Grinding Prevent Regrowth?

In most cases, yes. Stump grinding removes the crown and cuts the stump below the soil line, where most regrowth typically begins. 

If we suspect this could happen in your yard, we’ll let you know.

14. Can Stump Grinding Help Control Pests?

Absolutely. Old stumps are major attractions for insects like ants, termites, beetles, and other critters that love rotting wood.

By removing the stump, you’re:

• Eliminating a breeding ground for pests
• Reducing the risk of infestations spreading to nearby trees, structures, or fences
• Making your lawn more resistant to secondary fungal or bacterial issues

15. When Is the Best Time of Year to Grind Stumps in Regina?

Spring through early fall is ideal, when the ground is thawed, dry, and easy to work with. We don’t recommend winter because the frozen ground makes it harder to grind through. 

From Stubborn Stumps to Smooth Yards

Stump grinding may not be the most glamorous aspect of lawn care, but it makes a significant difference in the appearance of your yard. You could be dealing with a fresh stump or one that’s been there forever; in any case, we can help with professional stump grinding and removal services that give you back usable space, boost curb appeal, and stop problems before they start. 

Get a free estimate and take the first step toward a smoother, safer, and stump-free yard. We proudly serve homeowners in Regina, as well as Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, and Saskatoon.