Knowledgebase

Rotting tree stump under lawn #559541

Asked May 08, 2019, 2:53 PM EDT

I've got a tree stump and roots under the lawn that over the last few years has been getting more bumpy and coming up through the lawn. We moved in about 7 years ago, and at that time It wasn't noticeable. A few years ago I noticed what I think are voles that excavated holes in and around this spot. Mushrooms also grow out there at times. It's about a 10 foot radius. I imagine it will have to be dug out, which is a big job. How deep do I have to go? Is this a job that has to be done by a professional with specialty type equipment?

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

There are several ways to remove a tree stump. Smaller stumps can be removed with a sharp spade or pick. Larger stumps can be removed with a stump grinder. A local tree service company can do this or you can rent a grinder. You can speed up the decomposition process of the stump with stump removal chemicals available at lawn and garden centers. Usually the chemical is poured into holes that have been drilled into the stump and allowed to stand for several weeks. Repeat applications may be necessary. You can let the stump decay naturally.

 The activity of moles and earthworms can cause mounds and tunnels in lawns that result in uneven or rough patches. Earthworms ingest soil and organic matter, which passes through their digestive tracks and comes out the other end as worm poop (worm castings). Earthworms are active near the soil surface during spring and fall when the ground in wet. As a result, their castings can build up in mounds that resemble small ant hills. Moles tunnel through yards in search of soil dwelling insects and earthworms to eat can leave lawns potholed and uneven. Trapping is the most reliable method of mole control, but requires careful observation of tunneling activity to determine where to place the trap. https://www.mn-wildlifecontrol.com/moles.html

Information on voles is found at the following site.

http://extensionpublications.unl.edu/assets/html/g887/build/g887.htm

Pat M MN master gardener and TCA Replied May 08, 2019, 3:24 PM EDT

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