What to do with the Roots after Tree Removal?

What happens to tree roots after the tree is gone? 

We are a leading Gold Coast tree removal service and property owners are right to be concerned about the leftovers — roots and stumps. Are these parts often left behind after tree removal about to become another problem?

Here's what you need to know about the roots after tree removal…

Tree Roots Don’t Die Instantly

When you have a tree removed, the roots don’t disappear overnight. They will no longer be receiving nutrients, however, depending on the species, the roots can be capable of sprouting for months, even years.

The roots of species, such as camphor laurel or Chinese elm, are notorious — they can continue to send up new shoots, leading to problem vegetation and repeat removal costs.

Root Decay Takes Time

In many other cases after tree removal, no sprouting from the remaining roots takes place and the root system will begin to decompose. The timeline depends on:

• Soil type and moisture

• Tree species

• Root depth and spread

Root can take 5 years and as much as 10 years to decompose in the sandy or well-drained soils of Gold Coast suburbs such as Ashmore, Broadbeach, Burleigh Heads, or Surfers Paradise. During this time, underground pockets can be emptied by decaying roots, which can lead to soil sinkage and instability.

What About the Stump?

Beyond just eyesore, leaving the stump can cause a range of short-term and long-term problems:

• Trip hazards

  Tree stumps protruding from the ground pose a serious tripping risk to children, pets, or guests, especially in grassy or poorly lit areas. Stumps can also interfere with lawn mowing and general garden use.

• Pest attraction

  Rotting stumps provide ideal conditions for pest infestation. The moist, decaying wood can quickly attract termites, ants, beetles, and wood-boring insects. Fungal growth is another problem with rotting stumps. This can spread to nearby healthy trees and plants.

• Delayed root decay

  Leaving the stump in place will slow the decay process of the remaining root system. This is because the roots will feed from the stump itself,  delaying natural breakdown and extending the timeline before the area can be reused or replanted.

• Obstacles for replanting or landscaping

  A leftover stump would become a significant barrier when your plans include new turf, a veggie patch, or paved area. If it’s not dealt with upfront, the stump's presence will limit your options, add complexity to the layout, and will likely require expensive rework later.

Stump grinding will remove the visible base and some of the root mass below the soil line. For safety and faster site restoration, stump grinding at Gold Coast properties will be the best way forward.

Will Roots Damage Pipes or Foundations?

If the tree had aggressive roots, they may already be entangled with underground plumbing or near footings. 

Even after tree removal, roots can absorb moisture and shift soil around pipes. In some cases, decaying roots can create pathways for water to pool or penetrate foundations.

Should You Remove the Roots, the Stump, or Both?

Complete root removal is rarely necessary unless:

• You plan major construction or paving

• The tree was causing foundational damage

• You’re replanting a large new tree in the same spot

Stump grinding is sufficient in most cases. Roots will naturally decompose over time and you can top up soil or replant shallow-rooted species.

Summing up

Don’t forget the stump when you have a tree removed. The consequences of leaving it in place can be unpleasant to say the least. 

It's better to go for a clean finish the first time around and avoid the problems. Give us a quick call for expert advice on what to do next. 

The French Crew provides professional stump grinding services and landscaping after stump-removal. With our help, you'll make the most of your cleared space, whether your garden spaces need replanting, lawns need to be restored, or drainage needs to be sorted.