Maple Valley Tree Service Local Tree Cutting Experts Home About Contact Services FAQ 24/7 Emergency Services Stump Grinding An old tree stump in your yard can be a bigger problem than a simple lawn-mowing obstacle. A decaying tree stump can become a home to pests, rot, and disease, as well as causing problems for the rest of your yard. Many insects, such as termites, ants and beetles, will invade and nest in old tree stumps. At first, this may seem harmless. However, once these pests have established a foothold in your yard, they can quickly spread to other trees and buildings, including your home. A termite infestation can lead to thousands of dollars worth of damage to your property. Other insects in tree stumps can be harmful to you and your family. Roaches can spread disease and wood wasps can sting anyone unfortunate enough to get too close. Removing the tree stump will remove the bugs’ starter home. Stump removal can also prevent many forms of fungi from growing on your property. Fungus, if left to spread, is not only unsightly, but can also smell and attract gnats and flies. Also, fungi can spread to other plants, causing damage to trees, vegetable gardens and flowers. Trees damaged by fungus can become brittle and fragile, and therefore, dangerous. In addition, crops are easily ruined by the disease. Finally, a tree stump can be a hazard for small children and others. While the majority of the tree may be gone, the extensive root system still exists. These roots can cause people to trip as well as creating problems when you try to mow your lawn. Often, the tree stump and roots will sprout new growth despite the tree having been cut down. These new growths can still have the disease that caused you to remove the original tree, and can lead to greater expense to remove them.

Maple Valley Tree Service Local Tree Cutting Experts Home About Contact Services FAQ 24/7 Emergency Services Tree Pruning The main reasons for pruning ornamental and shade trees include safety, health, and aesthetics. In addition, pruning can be used to stimulate fruit production and increase the value of timber. Pruning for safety involves removing branches that could fall and cause injury or property damage, trimming branches that interfere with lines of sight on streets or driveways, and removing branches that grow into utility lines. Pruning for health involves removing diseased or insect-infested wood, thinning the crown to increase airflow and reduce some pest problems, and removing crossing and rubbing branches. Pruning can best be used to encourage trees to develop a strong structure and reduce the likelihood of damage during severe weather. Removing broken or damaged limbs encourages wound closure. Pruning for aesthetics involves enhancing the natural form and character of trees or stimulating flower production. Pruning for form can be especially important on open-grown trees that do very little self-pruning.