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Got into it with a client in Tampa over stump grinding depth last week
They wanted the whole thing gone, down to 24 inches, to plant a new oak right there. I argued that going that deep messes with the soil structure and can hit utilities, plus 12 inches is plenty for most new plantings. This came up because three years ago on a job in Orlando, we hit a gas line going too deep on a similar request. Where do you guys stand on how deep to grind for a replant?
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henry_palmer244mo ago
Jaken's right about the roots spreading wide not deep, so 24 inches is just creating a muddy hole that'll drown a new tree. On top of that, you're aerating soil way deeper than the roots will ever reach, which can cause settling issues later. Stick with the 12 inch rule and let the tree find its own way down.
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jaken236mo ago
Honestly, 12 inches is the standard for a reason. Going down to 24 is overkill and you're right, it does wreck the soil. Tbh, the bigger issue is that most new tree roots spread out wide, not deep, at first. They just don't need that much cleared space below ground. You're also creating a giant pit that can fill with water and rot the new roots. Stick to your guns on this one.
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