Stump grindings make good mulch for paths, shrub beds and play areas once aged for a few months, and they can be composted. Avoid using fresh grindings in lawns or vegetable beds. Having a pro haul them away usually costs $2 to $4 per inch of diameter or $50 to $200 per job.
Haven’t had the stump ground yet? See stump grinding costs by size and state.
Good uses for grindings
- Path and play-area mulch that suppresses weeds.
- Shrub and tree beds once aged, kept away from trunks.
- Compost in small amounts mixed with greens.
When to get rid of them
If you have no use for the chips, ask for haul-away in your quote. See our quote checklist.
Keep reading
-
After grinding What to Do After Stump Grinding What to do after stump grinding: clearing the grindings, filling the hole, regrowing grass, handling roots and stopping sprouts, step by step. - After grinding How to Fill a Stump Hole How to fill a stump hole after grinding or removal: what soil to use, how much you need, how to stop sinking and how to get grass growing again fast.
-
Hiring Stump Grinding Quote Checklist Use this stump grinding quote checklist to compare prices fairly: stump sizes, grind depth, roots, cleanup, access, 811, insurance and payment terms.
Browse all stump guides or go back to the stump grinding costs homepage.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use stump grindings as mulch?
Yes, once aged for a few months. Use them on paths and around shrubs rather than in the lawn.
Are stump grindings good for gardens?
Fresh grindings can tie up nitrogen. Compost them first or use them only as a top layer.
How much does it cost to haul away stump grindings?
About $2 to $4 per inch of diameter, or $50 to $200 per job.
Do stump grindings attract termites?
Wood chips can attract termites. Keep them at least a foot or two away from your house foundation.
How long do stump grindings take to decompose?
Several months to a few years, depending on wood type and moisture.
Can I put stump grindings in the compost bin?
Yes, in small amounts mixed with green material such as grass clippings.
How many grindings does one stump produce?
A medium stump can produce several wheelbarrows of chips and soil.
Should I leave grindings in the stump hole?
Remove most of them before adding topsoil, or the area will sink and grass may struggle.
Sources and methodology
Last updated . Prices are estimates built from published contractor rates, national cost guides and federal labor data. Read how we calculate prices.