What to do once your tree stump is removed in Melbourne
Tree stump removal Melbourne is a great way to improve the overall appearance of your home. After stump removal, the landscape looks more cohesive and enhances the value of the property. But, removing the stump is not the final step to make your yard look appealing and at its best. The scar in the soil resulting from stump removal should be obliterated and that takes some physical effort and love. Following are the measures to follow after stump removal/stump grinding.
Clear all the debris
Once the tree service people have finished their stump grinding Melbourne or tree stump removal Melbourne, undoubtedly they will haul away all the large wood bits from the property. But some debris would still be left and you may have to personally ensure that the area is free from twigs, wood shavings, dirt clods etc littering round the spot where the stump stood. Some rocks and clay may also have come up to the surface in the course of tree stump removal Melbourne and tidying up the place is again your responsibility.
All combustible elements from the debris can be moved to the fireplace if you have one. In most situations, stump removal leaves a gaping hole and the tendency is to dump all the debris into the hole since it is a lot more convenient than collecting it in another container and disposing of it elsewhere. But, this is not convenient for the soil around to allow fresh sods to gain root. Ideally, all the debris can be collected in a bag and disposed of with other garbage. However, some trash companies may have their own stipulation with respect to landscaping debris and you may want to check out.
Fill the hole
Sometimes, the debris from stump removal/stump grinding Melbourne may be inadequate to fill the hole left behind after the job, or it is not healthy for the surrounding vegetation. If this is the situation, you should find soil or dirt to fill the hole ensuring that proper type of soil that is suitable for your yard is hosen. If you think of putting new grass on top of the reclaimed surface, you should also find some topsoil that is nutrient-rich. Notice also that depending on the size and depth of the hole, several bags of topsoil may be needed to fill the hole. Take care not to pack the soil too hard so that roots from the surrounding vegetation can spread with ease.
You can also get creative
While adding grass may be the more common option that is not the singular choice after stump removal. A new tree can be planted where the old one stood instead of making the lawn larger. When you choose this option you may also have to clear up remaining roots and any large boulders inside the hole. Once this is done it gets easier for the roots of the new tree to spread and establish themselves in the soil. While choosing the new tree, also ensure that the species can easily grow in your region and suitable for the soil you have. If need be, you can also reach out to tree and stump removal professionals for guidance. If you are picking plants from neighbourhood nurseries, many plants may look attractive, but it is important to know if they can grow healthy in your yard.
Spread grass seeds
When planting one or more new trees is not your option, the grass is your next great alternative. Since only a small area needs to be covered, you can simply spread some grass seeds with your hand. But, take care to choose a type of grass that is already present in your yard. Your stump removal professionals can be of help if you need guidance with this. Simply spread the chosen seed over the topsoil and cover the patch fully. After this, the seeds can be raked gently into the soil. As for tooling, you may just need a hand rake and nothing more. While at this task, ensure that only minimal force is used so that the seeds do not get too deep into the hole. Once you think the job is done well, add a fresh layer of topsoil for covering the seeds. This way, the seeds will be protected from blowing away by wind or getting washed off during rain.
Watering
When you are adding the topsoil, you may find enough moisture in that. But this is not adequate and you must water the surface at intervals to help the seeds to sprout. You can use a garden hose and give a liberal soaking to the surface so that there is enough water around. But you should also ensure that you do not overwater the surface and allow the seeds to float around. After soaking up the topsoil, it can be left for a few days without any further watering. At intervals, you can check the dampness and add more water if needed. During this phase, if it rains, you may also not need to add any water.
Caring for the new grass
After the new grass takes root, you can care for it in the same way you are doing it for other parts of your lawn. If you see the grass growing too tall, mow it with an eye on its growth across the year. If you see the spot to be too patchy, you can spread more seeds.
Conclusion
Stump removal is only the beginning and need not negatively impact your landscaping. It can be used as an opportunity to beautify your yard the way you have always wanted. If you are not sure how to go about with this, professional help is always available and you can contact a competent tree stump removal Melbourne services.
