Growing a tree from a stump is easier than you might think—just ask any property owner who believed cutting down the tree would kill it completely. However, maybe you lost a tree due to a storm and would like it to grow back.
If that is the case, Arborist Aboard, Odessa’s tree service experts, compiled this list of tips to help you encourage the growth of sprouts.
Tree Stump Facts
When you cut down a tree, the small remnant of the trunk is what we call the stump. Depending on the tree species, this section will likely be alive and may sprout new growth. The chances increase if the tree was previously healthy.
Can You Grow a Tree from the Stump?
Growing a tree from a stump is a natural part of most species’ regeneration process. If a tree falls over in nature, the roots do not automatically die. They may, therefore, provide enough nutrients for new growth.
If the roots send up new shoots, these can form a strong tree. Shoots growing from the stump itself, however, are more likely to form a smaller tree.
How to Regrow a Tree from a Stump
It’s fascinating that growing a tree from a stump is possible, considering that there are no leaves or branches. However, the roots store much of the tree’s energy, enabling it to rejuvenate itself.
If the conditions are right, the tree will send out shoots so that it can grow new branches and leaves. This survival response helps it recover after major damage. Therefore, if you want your tree to grow again, leave as much of the stump intact as possible and create optimal conditions for growth.
This includes enriching the soil with organic materials without damaging the roots and ensuring there is enough water. You might also lay wood chips around as mulch to protect the outlying roots until the canopy reforms.
Which Trees May Grow Back?
As professional arborists, we can tell you whether growing a tree from a stump is possible. However, the following species will commonly recover:
- Cottonwood
- Tamarisks
- Russian Olive
- Eucalyptus
- Elm
- Ficus
- Tree of heaven
- Willow
- Poplar tree
What Trees Are Unlikely to Recover?
According to tree care experts, the following species are unlikely to recover:
- Pine
- Oak
- Palm
- Maple
- Fir
- Cedar
- Aspen
- Cypress
- Spruce
How to Prevent Regrowth
If you took the tree out for a good reason, you might not want it to grow back. Professional arborists use several techniques to stop regrowth and will choose one depending on the species and environmental conditions.
Stump Grinding
Stump grinding is a cost-effective way to prevent growth. Professionals use a grinder to remove the stump up until a few inches underground. It is less labor-intensive than a full removal and a pretty efficient way to prevent regrowth.
Stump Extraction
Stump extraction is the one way to guarantee that the tree will never grow again. However, it is challenging to accomplish. For large trees, you will usually need to use earth-moving equipment. Property owners seldom choose this option because it is difficult and will result in a massive hole in the ground.
Chemical Control
Poison is a quick way to kill the stump, but you are then left with the protrusion. This can become a safety hazard for children, pets, and even adults.
Contact Arborist Aboard for the Best Advice
Should you consider growing a tree from a stump or grinding tree stumps instead? Schedule a consultation with Arborist Aboard at (813) 920 4410 today and get the right advice every time.
