Once a tree is removed, if the stump remains there is a chance the plant will grow back. Of course, it depends on the type of tree and the condition of the roots. But if you want the tree gone for good, there are a few things to consider.

How a Tree can Grow Back from a Stump

There are many reasons why a tree needs to be removed. If it’s because of the location, it’s unlikely you want the plant growing back in the same spot. However, if you don’t remove the stump and the root system is still alive, there’s a chance of regrowth. Healthy trees that have enough stored energy will put out new shoots. This is more likely for fast-growing deciduous trees like willows, poplars, or elms, but is less common for slow-growing trees or conifers.

New growth doesn’t come from the stump itself, but from the roots that are still alive and connected to the stump. These roots are where the energy is stored before the tree was cut down. This fuels new growth known as sucker shoots that can pop up wherever the roots are located throughout your yard.

Rapid regrowth is a natural survival response for many trees. When there’s living tissue just below the bark (cambium layer) it tries to keep the tree alive by triggering new growth. Keep this in mind when you’re considering tree removal with or without removing the stump. If you’re removing a mature, healthy deciduous tree, it’s more likely to regrow. It may take some time to see sprouts to appear and even longer to develop into a full-size tree. But if you don’t want another tree in that area, there are ways to prevent regrowth.

How to Keep a Tree from Growing Back

When you’re planning tree removal, stump removal is usually not included unless you specify you want this additional service. While grinding the stump removes the visible wood above ground, there’s still a root system underground that stretches as wide as the tree canopy. If the roots are still alive, they can produce new growth. If you don’t want the tree to grow back, you also need to remove these roots. Removing the roots requires you to tear up these sections of lawn or garden, but would you rather regrow grass or trees?

If you don’t remove the roots, you can still prevent the tree from growing back by removing any new sprouts as they appear. This may take a while before the roots eventually die back.

Even if you leave the stump and the roots, there’s no guarantee the new growth will be as healthy. In fact, multiple shoots from the stump could produce a weakened plant if not pruned correctly. Discuss your options with a tree care professional to help ensure plants you don’t want won’t regrow and any plants you do want can thrive.