A leftover stump isn't just an eyesore. It's a tripping hazard, a magnet for ants and fungus, and it'll keep sending up new shoots for years if it's left alone. Grinding it below grade clears the way to reseed, landscape, or plant right over the spot.
Grinding vs. full stump removal
Most jobs use a stump grinder to shred the stump and surface roots down 6–12 inches below grade — fast, affordable, and enough to plant grass or shallow-rooted plants over top. Full removal, which pulls the entire root ball out of the ground, is slower and pricier, and is really only necessary if you're planting a new tree in the exact same spot or need the roots gone for construction.
What affects the cost
Stump diameter is the biggest factor, followed by how many stumps you're grinding and how easy the grinder is to get to your yard. For typical Winnipeg price ranges, see our tree removal cost guide, which breaks out stump grinding pricing separately from removal.
What to expect on the day
- Site protection. The area around the stump is cleared and protected from flying debris.
- Grinding. The stump and major surface roots are ground down below grade.
- Cleanup. Wood chips are either hauled away or left for you to use as mulch, depending on what you prefer.
Get a free, no-obligation quote
Tell us how many stumps you have and we'll connect you with a licensed local crew — most homeowners hear back within 24 hours.
Get My Free QuoteCommon questions
Grass seed can usually go down almost immediately. For a new tree or shrub in the exact same spot, it's best to backfill with fresh soil first since the ground wood will settle as it decomposes.
Yes — once the stump itself is ground out, the tree can no longer send up new shoots. Remaining roots simply break down naturally over time.
Either option works — most crews will haul the grindings away as part of the job, or leave them on-site if you'd like to use them as mulch.