Stump diameter

Stump diameter is a straight-line width across the top of the stump, through the center. It is measured at the widest point, not around the edge.

Iowa State Extension says arborists charge by the size of the stump, measuring it at its widest point. Because of that, diameter is the first thing a company asks for. Flared stumps with wide roots at the base can measure larger than the trunk above them, so ask where the company measures.

To measure, lay a tape across the stump at the widest point and write down the inches. Photos with a tape or ruler in view help a company give a quote without a visit. See how to measure a stump for a quote. It feeds per-inch pricing.