What happens to the roots when a tree is removed?

Amador Tree Service • January 18, 2025
A man is spraying a tree stump with a hose.

When a tree is removed, many people focus on the visible part—the trunk, branches, and leaves—but what happens to the roots left behind underground is often overlooked. Tree roots play a vital role in anchoring the tree and absorbing water and nutrients from the soil. Once the tree is gone, the roots go through their own process of decay and transformation. In many cases it’s best to use stump grinding techniques to help ensure that the tree doesn’t grow back and the area is properly prepared for new projects. At Amador Tree Service, we provide expert stump grinding and removal in the greater Ione, CA area. Here’s a look at what happens to the roots when a tree is removed.


Immediate Aftermath of Tree Removal

When a tree is cut down, the root system remains in the ground. In most cases, tree roots do not continue to grow once the tree has been removed because they rely on the tree's leaves to produce food through photosynthesis. Without this energy source, the roots gradually begin to die off. However, in some tree species, roots may attempt to sprout new growth if they are still alive.


Decay and Decomposition 

Over time, the roots will naturally begin to break down and decompose. This process is facilitated by fungi, bacteria, and other microorganisms present in the soil. Depending on the size of the root system and environmental factors, decomposition can take several years. During this time, the roots will gradually turn into organic matter, enriching the soil.


Soil Settling 

As roots decompose, they leave behind voids in the soil where the roots once were. These gaps can cause the soil to settle, potentially leading to uneven ground or small sinkholes forming. This is especially common in areas where large trees with extensive root systems have been removed. Property owners should be aware of this possibility and monitor the area where the tree once stood.


Nutrient Recycling 

The decaying roots contribute valuable organic matter and nutrients back into the soil. This natural recycling process can benefit nearby plants and trees, improving soil fertility.


Managing Leftover Roots 

In some situations, leftover roots can become problematic, especially if they interfere with construction projects, sidewalks, or underground utilities. Stump grinding is a common solution to address remaining root systems, as it reduces the stump and upper roots to wood chips, allowing for easier landscaping and reduced risk of regrowth.


Stump Grinding & Removal in Ione, CA

For stump grinding and removal in Ione, Placerville, Angels Camp and the surrounding area, contact Amador Tree Service at 209-213-4542. Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in Amador County!

5 Signs That a Tree May Be Dying

By Amador Tree Service • April 16, 2025
When a tree starts to decline, it can soon become a serious safety hazard. A dying tree is more vulnerable to disease, pests, and structural failure, making it important to recognize the warning signs early. At Amador Tree Service, our local arborists can identify dying trees and then safely remove them as necessary. Here are five signs that a tree may be dying. Bark Damage and Peeling If the bark is falling off in large chunks or revealing smooth, bare wood underneath, it may indicate a serious problem. Deep cracks in the bark can also make the tree susceptible to pests and disease, accelerating its decline. If a tree's bark is brittle or missing in large sections, it could be a sign that the tree is no longer able to sustain itself. Lack of Healthy Leaves A tree’s leaves are a clear indicator of its overall health. If a tree is not producing new leaves in the spring or has sparse or discolored foliage, it may be struggling to survive. Dead or dying trees often show signs of leaf loss outside of the normal seasonal cycle, with leaves falling prematurely. Brittle/Dead Branches A tree with dead or brittle branches is likely experiencing health issues. When branches break easily or snap under minimal pressure, it suggests that the tree is losing its structural integrity. Dead branches also pose a danger, as they can fall unexpectedly, causing damage to property or injury to people. Leaning/Unstable Trunk A tree that is leaning significantly or has an unstable trunk may be in the process of dying. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden or noticeable lean can suggest root damage or structural weakness. If a tree shows signs of instability, it’s important to have it assessed by an arborist before it becomes a bigger safety hazard. Fungal Growth at the Base The presence of fungal growth at the base of a tree can indicate internal decay. Fungi thrive on decomposing wood, so if you see clusters of mushrooms growing on the trunk or around the roots, it may mean that the tree is rotting from the inside out. Once internal decay sets in, the tree becomes weaker and more prone to collapse. Tree Removal in Ione, CA For tree removal in Ione , Placerville, Angels Camp and the surrounding area, contact Amador Tree Service at  209-213-4542  . Feel free to give us a call to arrange an arborist estimate in Amador County!

Check Out the Latest Customer Reviews for Amador Tree Service in Ione, CA!

By Amador Tree Service • March 15, 2025
At Amador Tree Service, we’re proud members of the local small business community. It’s our mission to earn our customers’ complete satisfaction by doing top-quality tree work at fair rates. No matter how big or small the job, our local arborists will work diligently to complete it to the highest standards. And we’re grateful when our customers take the time to offer feedback about their experiences with us. Here are some of our latest customer reviews. “Richard and his crew provided prompt and professional service for our large mistletoe removal project. The oak trees around our home had various amounts of mistletoe and they cleared it all out in a single day. The trees look great and we would recommend their services to anyone.” — Rob S. “Richard and his crew are absolutely the best. Prompt, thorough and reasonable quotes along with the highest quality work. They go above and beyond with experienced arborists and highly skilled workers and leave a completely clean job site.” — Kathleen M. “Rich, Matt and their team removed nine trees, three of them being monster bull pines and having to work around fencing and other obstacles. They did a great job taking out the trees around these obstacles, cleaning up the work areas and hauling off the resulting timber. Rich and Matt understand what customer service means (unfortunately an art that has become lacking in today's society) and practice it very well. Not to mention their great sense of humor that made them a joy to have here. There are more trees on the property to be cleared out to help mitigate wildland fire danger and I will definitely be using their service again. Thanks guys!” — Michael M. “Knowledgeable and friendly crew. Arrived when they said they would, completed the job quickly and efficiently. I would hire them again. Thank you!” — Elaine S. “We had a big oak tree come down during a storm. Amador Tree Service removed it and then trimmed 11 other big oaks to remove weight from the outer branches to lessen the chance of future problems. They are very professional, friendly, and clean up perfectly after the work. We highly recommend them.” — John R. Tree Services in Ione, CA For an experienced arborist in Ione, Placerville, Angels Camp and the surrounding area, contact Amador Tree Service at  209-213-4542  . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in Amador County!