For most Peninsula species – pines, cypress, redwoods, most oaks – no. Grinding removes the stump 6 to 12 inches below grade and destroys the growth point. The roots left in the ground decompose naturally on their own; full decomposition takes roughly 5 to 10 years depending on species and moisture, and the soil above may settle an inch or two – top it up after the first winter.

The exceptions are vigorous re-sprouters: willows, poplars, some acacias, and blue gum eucalyptus, which can send up shoots from the root collar for years. For those species we grind deeper, remove more of the root flare, and can treat regrowth if it appears.

Grinding is faster and cheaper than full stump removal and right for nearly all situations; full excavation matters mainly if you are building, repaving, or replanting over the spot. Stump grinding is discounted when bundled with tree removal, and backfill plus cleanup are included.