Why Grass Dies Over Ground Tree Stumps: Sawdust Nitrogen Tie-Up and Acidity

The Mechanism

Stump grinding leaves sawdust. As it decomposes, microbes steal soil nitrogen (starving grass) and release tannic acid, plummeting pH. Below pH 5, nutrients lock up.

Fix

• Apply hydrated lime weekly (light applications) to raise pH quickly. Follow label.
• Foliar-feed with high-nitrogen water-soluble fertilizer—bypasses soil lockup.
• Monitor pH frequently; continue until stable at 6.5.

Why Not Baking Soda?

Works but expensive. Lime is cheaper and standard for turf.