• (216) 532-9138
  • office@juststumpit.com
  • OHIO

Why is mulch compost not infectious?

Composting plant residues is a safe and scientifically validated method for eliminating plant diseases. During decomposition, microbial activity generates heat—often reaching **55–70°C**—that destroys harmful fungi, bacteria, and nematodes. Beyond this thermophilic phase, compost becomes a living shield thanks to beneficial microorganisms. Species such as *Bacillus subtilis* and *Pseudomonas fluorescens* produce antibiotics and enzymes that suppress pathogens, while *Streptomyces* (actinomycetes) degrade…

Composting mulch after stump grinding as a way to protect against infections

Composting plant residues is a natural and safe way to eliminate many plant diseases while enriching the soil. When organic matter such as leaves, stems, and garden waste is placed in a compost pile, it undergoes controlled decomposition. The heat generated during the composting process—often reaching 55–70°C—destroys harmful pathogens, fungi, and bacteria that could otherwise spread to healthy plants. In…

Cases of honey fungus root disease in the United States

A well-documented case of honey fungus (*Armillaria*) disease in North America occurred in conifer forests of the western United States, where *Armillaria solidipes* (formerly *A. ostoyae*) has caused widespread mortality of Douglas-fir and other species.** — 🌲 Case Study: Armillaria Root Disease in the Western U.S. – **Location:** Northern Idaho and the Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana). – **Pathogen:**…

How to protect your garden from honey fungus root disease?

Honey fungus (Armillaria root disease) is one of the most destructive fungal infections of trees, capable of killing hundreds of species and reshaping entire landscapes. A real-life example is its widespread impact on UK gardens and woodlands, where it has destroyed ornamental plantings and weakened forest ecosystems.** — 🍄 What Is Honey Fungus Root Disease? – **Pathogen:** Caused by fungi…

Stumps kill trees.

Rotting Tree Stumps as Reservoirs of Pathogenic Infection: Implications for Forest and Landscape Health — Abstract Rotting tree stumps represent a significant ecological niche for pathogenic fungi and other microorganisms. While decomposition is a natural process, stumps act as persistent reservoirs of infection that threaten the health of adjacent trees. This article synthesizes current scientific understanding of stump-associated pathogens, their…

How insects living in tree stumps can damage property?

Insects living in tree stumps are dangerous to homeowners because they attract destructive pests like termites, ants, and beetles that can spread into homes, damage wooden structures, and create health risks. — 🪲 Why Tree Stump Insects Are a Problem – **Termite Infestation** – Tree stumps provide the perfect environment for termites and other wood-boring insects. – Once established, termites…

Why are insects living in tree stumps dangerous?

Insects that colonize rotting stumps can become dangerous to nearby living trees because they spread into healthy wood and roots. The most problematic groups are bark beetles, wood borers, carpenter ants, and termites.** — 🐞 Key Insects Found in Stumps That Threaten Trees | **Bark beetles** | Breed in weakened or dead wood, including stumps | Spread into stressed or…

About mice and ticks and the hidden danger lurking near the house.

🐭 Mice in Tree Stumps and Deadwood – **Shelter and nesting:** Tree stumps and decaying logs provide cracks, cavities, and soft rotting wood that are ideal for mice to build nests. These spaces protect them from predators and harsh weather. – **Food availability:** Deadwood environments often harbor insects, fungi, and seeds, which mice can feed on. Acorns and other nuts…

Honey Fungus: The Hidden Killer Beneath Our Trees

An outbreak of Armillaria root fungus in North America occurred in coniferous forests in the western United States, where Armillaria solidipes (formerly A. ostoyae) caused widespread mortality of Douglas-fir and other species. — 🌲 Example: Armillaria Root Fungus in the Western United States Location: Northern Idaho and the Pacific Northwest (Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana). Pathogen: Armillaria solidipes, one of the…

How to make compost from mulch left over from stump grinding?

Sawdust is very high in carbon, so to make good compost you must balance it with nitrogen‑rich “greens” (like grass clippings, manure, or food scraps), keep the pile moist, and turn it regularly. Here are three practical recipes tailored for different gardening needs. — ## 🌱 Recipe 1: Sawdust + Grass Clippings Compost – **Ingredients:** – 2 parts sawdust (untreated,…

Translate »