Why You Should Never Leave a Tree Stump Behind

After a tree is removed, many homeowners assume the job is done. But if the stump is left behind, it can cause more problems than you might expect. While it may seem harmless or even decorative, a tree stump can pose risks to your safety, your lawn, and your property’s value.



Whether you're in Rhode Island or Massachusetts, here’s why stump removal or grinding is a smart investment—not an optional one.

A leftover stump may not look dangerous, but it can be a major tripping hazard—especially for children, guests, or lawn care crews. If someone gets injured on your property because of an exposed stump, it could lead to costly liability issues.

Stumps also make mowing more difficult and risky. One wrong turn with your mower can damage your equipment—or worse, injure you.

Old tree stumps become breeding grounds for termites, carpenter ants, beetles, and other wood-boring insects. Over time, these pests may migrate from the stump into your home, garage, or shed—especially if your property is already surrounded by mature trees or wood structures.

Removing the stump helps prevent infestations before they begin, reducing long-term pest control costs.

Even after a tree has been cut down, its root system may remain active for years. Roots can continue to grow underground, cracking sidewalks, damaging irrigation systems, or lifting sections of your lawn.

If you’ve noticed bumps in your grass, uneven turf, or moisture issues in areas where a stump used to be, you may already be dealing with lingering root problems.

Leaving a stump behind increases the chances of unwanted regrowth. Many species will try to regenerate from the remaining roots, leading to shoots or “suckers” sprouting up in odd places. Not only are these shoots unattractive, but they can also be difficult to fully remove later—and may compete with other plants in your yard.

Diseased trees don’t stop being a threat once they’re cut down. If the original tree was removed due to illness, the stump may still harbor fungi or bacteria that can spread to nearby healthy trees.

Removing the stump as soon as possible helps protect the health of your entire landscape.

A rotting or decaying stump is not only unattractive—it can also lower your property’s value. If you’re planning to sell your home, potential buyers may view a stump as a sign of neglect or an extra expense they’ll have to deal with.

Removing the stump now helps maintain a clean, polished look and gives your yard a better first impression.

Stump grinding is the safest and most efficient way to eliminate a stump and its root system. The process involves grinding the wood below ground level, allowing the area to be filled in with soil and re-landscaped without obstacles.



At M&M Tree Service, we offer professional stump grinding services across Rhode Island and Massachusetts, using powerful equipment to complete the job quickly and cleanly.

If you’ve been living with a leftover tree stump, don’t wait any longer. The risks to your safety, lawn, and property value just aren’t worth it. Let M&M Tree Service help you clear the space for good.



Contact us today for a free estimate and fast, professional stump removal in Rhode Island or Massachusetts.