The tree removal process usually doesn’t include removing the stump unless you arrange for both services to be done at the same time. Many homeowners just leave the stump, thinking that they’ll take care of it later. However, leaving a stump behind can cause serious problems for both your yard and your personal safety. If you’ve got an old tree stump in your yard, here are signs that you need to have it removed now.

Bugs or Fungi Are a Risk or Are Present

Pests love old tree stumps; the wood provides food for some, like termites, and shelter for plenty of others. The old wood is also easily taken over by fungi. If you see bugs or fungi in the stump, have it removed. And if your area is known for having bugs like grubs, for example, remove the stump immediately, even if there are no signs of an infestation yet. Grubs love tree stumps, and if they set up camp there, they can attack other plants in your yard.

There Are Visible Signs of Rotting

Any stump that shows visible signs of rotting needs to be removed. Rotting wood creates the perfect environment for bugs and pathogens to thrive. Plus, the rotting areas are eyesores. There’s nothing you can do to restore a rotting tree stump.

Roots Are a Trip Hazard

The stump isn’t the only thing left in your yard after tree removal; that stump still has its roots, and those roots are trip hazards. Rather than risking your safety, have the stump removed if you see that the roots are in the way.

You Want to Sell Your Home

Old stumps can make your yard look sloppy and neglected. That can adversely affect the resale value of your home. If you plan to sell your property in the near future, have the stump removed as soon as possible so that the ground has time to recover.

You Want to Use the Land for Something Else

Finally, tree stumps and their roots take up space in your yard. If you want to use the land, whether it’s the exact spot or an area nearby, you’ll need to remove the stump. The tree roots interfere with planting plans and make it difficult (if not impossible) to install anything like hardscaping in the yard. No matter how old the stump is or what condition it’s in, wanting to use the land for something else is a very good reason to remove the stump.

Tree stumps don’t have to look bad to be a problem. Rather than letting the stump rot, have it removed now so that you can find better things to do with the land. If you’re in Carson City, NV, contact Joe Benigno’s Tree Service for stump grinding and removal.