Get matched with top brush chipping pros in Brookings, SD

While you can leave roots in the ground, if you don’t want the shrub to regrow again over time, it’s best not to leave any roots behind. Ensure you remove as much of the shrub as possible, including the root ball and any main roots you can see, to prevent new growth. Some gardeners opt for using a chemical treatment to prevent the stump from growing back, but this can kill beneficial microorganisms living in your soil.

Burning yard waste can be an efficient method for large amounts. However, burning has health and environmental risks. Smoke can aggravate respiratory conditions, expose you to carbon monoxide, and cause irritation. Fire produces greenhouse gases and may start wildfires. Minimize risks by burning clean, dry, natural materials. Stay upwind and monitor the fire closely.

In most cases, it’s better to remove rocks before adding mulch. Layering the two will restrict drainage and plant health, and can create an unpleasant texture underfoot.

Clearing 1 acre of land takes anywhere from two to 12 hours for a professional team, depending on what they’re removing. The amount of time needed to complete the project depends on the size of your acreage, the land’s condition, the size of the crew completing the work, and what type of equipment they’re using. Smaller projects normally take a few hours, while larger projects may require one or two full workdays.