After a tree is cut down, you’re left with the stump unless you have it removed. You may think that having a tree stump in your yard is harmless enough, but you could unknowingly be attracting an army of termites into your backyard which is far from ideal! Let’s take a look at why tree stumps attract termites and how stump grinding and other methods can prevent it from happening.

Why Do Tree Stumps Attract Termites?

Tree stumps take a considerable amount of time to decay and break down. During this process, they can attract all sorts of insects including termites. Tree stumps attract termites because they provide everything that a termite needs to survive and thrive:

• Food source – derived from the wood of the stump.
• Water source – tree stumps usually hold moisture, especially after rain.
• Shelter – stumps are full of dark, warm and damp crevices perfect for termite colonies that provides them with protection.

A tree stump is basically like a comfy hotel and non-stop, all-you-can-eat buffet for these critters!

How To Help Prevent Termites From Infesting Tree Stumps

1. Stump Grinding

The best, most effective course of action is to hire a professional Arborist for stump grinding and have the tree stump removed completely, using a specialised piece of equipment called (funnily enough) a stump grinder. Stump grinding essentially shreds the stump down below ground level into a fine chip. This is a relatively inexpensive and effective way to remove the stump and prevent infestation from occurring.

Your Arborist will also inspect the stump to determine whether there is an active infestation and advise whether further treatment is required.

2. Burn The Stump

Another option you can try is to burn the stump. This obviously comes with inherent risks and may not be allowed in your local area. Always check with your local council if you are permitted to do so. You also run the risk of it not being totally effective and re-infestation occurring if any of the stump is left behind.

3. Keep The Area Dry

Moisture attracts termites. Try to keep the area dry by improving drainage around the stump and not over watering so the ground isn’t sodden.

4. Use A Termite Treatment

You can try using an insecticide or termiticide treatment on your stump. This may  be effective in treating a current infestation but you are obviously still open to reinfestation occurring if the stump remains in place.

5. Plant Termite Repelling Plants

Certain species of plants can be used around the stump to help repel termites such as sunflowers, catnip, geraniums, daisies and certain flowering herbs. Termites are known to be persistent so this may help in preventing infestation, but you will need to be vigilant in checking there aren’t any present.

DIY Vs Professional Stump Grinding

You can hire stump grinders and attempt to do the job yourself, however like most tree jobs, it comes with risk, so it’s almost always best left to the professionals who will come insured, experienced and knowledgeable in tackling the job the right way. Save yourself the hassle and possibility of damage and accidents and hire an Arborist. Job done!

Professional Tree Stump Grinding

For all your professional tree stump grinding and tree removal needs, speak to the friendly team at Aussie Tree Solutions. We have been providing a comprehensive range of tree care and maintenance solutions for over forty years. So whatever your tree problem, we’ve got the solution!