How to Operate a Stump Grinder
- 1). Trim the stump as close to the ground as possible. This will make your work easier.
- 2). Clear any rocks or very large debris from the area before using the stump grinder.
- 3). Uncover the roots. Grounds Maintenance Magazine advises that surface roots may run for several feet beyond the stump of the tree and you should try to uncover as many as possible before you grind the stump and grind those up as well.
- 4). Put on all of your safety gear before turning on the machine.
- 5). Turn on the power, raise the wheel so it is positioned slightly above the stump and lower it until the wheel begins grinding the stump. Use the lever to move the wheel back and forward across the stump until you have chewed about 4 inches into the stump.
- 6). Let the machine feed itself; don’t force it.
- 7). Check your progress and begin again until the stump has been completely removed. Savvy Gardener recommends grinding a hole 10 to 12 inches deep. You can easily replant in that spot if you dig down deeply enough.
- 8). Put the wood chips in the compost pile instead of using them to fill in the hole. This is especially important if you plan to replant in that hole, since decaying wood chips will tie up nitrogen in the soil.