Removing StumpsFAQ </head> <body bgcolor="white"> <table align="center" cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" border="2"> <tr> <td > <td width="15%"><img src="aamglogolong.JPG" width=200 height=48 border=0 alt=""></td> <td WIDTH="85%"> <div align="center"><h2>Removing Stumps</h2></div></td> </tr> </table><br> <b><i><h3>Question:</h3></i> I just removed a conifer tree from my front yard. My intent is plant grass and a Japanese lilac in its place. Right now the root system is exposed and very noticeable. What is the best way to remove this root system and prepare the ground for the growth of grass?</b> <i><h3>Minnesota Master Gardeners say:</h3></i> After removing a tree, it is a good idea to hire someone to come in with a portable grinder to grind out the stump and large roots from the area before attempting to plant. If you prefer to handle it yourself, you can dig out the stump and roots. Stumps also rot over a number of years without special treatment. You can accelerate the process by covering a stump with a few inches of soil and keeping it moist. There are also chemical stump removers but label directions often include burning the stump. This is usually not legal in metropolitan areas. Check this site:<br><br> <a href="http://www.extension.umn.edu/yardandgarden/ygbriefs/h446removetree.html">http://www.extension.umn.edu/yardandgarden/ygbriefs/h446removetree.html</a><br><br> After doing that, you could add 4-6 inches of top soil and plant the grass seed. Here is a good site to check on planting the grass:<br><br> <a href="http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/DG5775.html">http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/horticulture/DG5775.html</a><br><br> I would wait until spring to plant the Japanese lilac tree. Spring planting helps it get off to a much better start. Japanese lilacs are an excellent choice in the landscape. While it needs full sun, it is adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions.<br><br> </body> </html>