Can I Plant a Tree in the Same Spot Where I Just Removed a Stump?

Removal Methods

• Tree stumps can be removed from sight by grinding the stump or encouraging decomposition through the use of chemical and biological catalysts. Other methods include hand-digging, backhoes and even fire. Before planting a tree in a former tree's site, give thought to the amount and density of the former tree's root system. Grinding removes the stump up to 1 foot below-ground, while chemical and biological catalysts simply disintegrate the upper stump. These methods leave root systems largely intact. Hand digging and backhoes are effective in the removal of spreading root systems such as those on pine trees; but trees with tap roots, such as oak, prove difficult. Fire removes the upper stump, but allowing the fire to plunge below ground is risky, due mainly to the existence of underground gas lines and the possibility of smoldering roots.

Removal Methods/Consequences

• Existing root systems aren't the only factors that can retard new tree growth. Removal methods can damage the integrity of the soil and disrupt a future planting hole. Stump grinding leaves a large amount of sawdust, which can increase the amount of carbon in soil. High carbon concentrations limit the amount of nitrogen available to a young tree, a nutrient the tree needs in order to grow. Digging out a stump and its roots will result in a depression in the ground. Planting a new tree in a depression will result in a potentially water-logged tree. A pre-shaped hole also limits the area in which a new root system can extend and develop.

Tree Species & Spacing

• Take into account both the old and new trees' root patterns. Placing a tap-root tree like an oak in an area formerly holding a pine tree's spreading root pattern is one way to ensure that the new root system will not be impeded by the old root patterns. To avoid this and other problems, take note of advice given by horticulturists from Illinois State University. They suggest that the best way to avoid the pitfalls of planting a new tree in an old tree's spot is to plant the new tree near the old tree's former position. The recommended spacing is 3 feet from the old site.

Alternative Plantings

• While waiting for new trees to establish, you may be faced with some aesthetic problems. Try placing sod over the old stump area or planting annual flowers in the tree's former spot. Take care, though, not to plant flowers or sod that will interfere with the new tree's root development. Limit root competition by planting shallow-rooted flowers or groundcovers. You may wish to forgo planting a new tree entirely. Homeowners have found that trees, like elms, produce vigorous water sprouts from their stumps. These sprouts can be pruned back and maintained to form a low hedge.