Question
We have three juniper hedges in our front yard that have been there for about 60 years, and need to be removed. My husband and I can remove them ourselves, unless we have to remove the root balls. Is it OK to remove the above-ground bits and leave the roots to decompose? Our plan is to plant grass (seed or sod) where the hedges are now, and we would like to plant some "Knock Out" roses where one hedge is. We are fine waiting for the roots to decompose before planting the roses; we have heard of something to apply to the trunks to help the roots die, but don't know what to look for, or how long it will take until we can dig deep enough to plant gallon-pot-sized roses. Thanks very sincerely for any tips you can provide!

Answer
The problem is that the mower will catch on the raised root portions when you try to move.  The next best thing to removing the root ball is to at least make sure you cut it below the soil line and add some soil on top to ensure it's a decent canvas for the lawn and plantings.