Once a tree is cut down and removed, the question of what to do with the stump arises. Stumps left behind from tree cutting can be variously described as unsightly, taking up valuable gardening space, and even hazardous The objective of the stump removal should first be clearly defined. The use of the area after stump removal needs to be assessed, since it may determine the extent of removal operations. Once a live tree is cut down, the roots soon stop growing. There is no longer the stimulation from hormones produced in the canopy to encourage new growth of roots. In most cases, the roots stop growing within a matter of days or weeks, and usually die shortly after that.

Some tree species develop root sprouts, however, pushing out new stems from the root system. If allowed to grow, these shoots will produce the hormones and the carbohydrates the roots need to survive. Simply mowing the sprouts as they develop will usually result in the final death of the root system within a few months or a year. There are several methods of removing tree stumps. Mechanical routing is the quickest method.

Stump grinding machines generally operate with a large flywheel equipped with cutting teeth. The operator moves the cutter head over the stump, grinding it away a little at a time. The machines currently available come in many sizes, and some are designed to work in tight places. Efficiency of the grinding process is a factor of the size of the cutter head, the power of the machine, and the proficiency of the operator.