Stump Removal – How to Get Rid of a Stump

Stumps are an eyesore in any garden, and can be a serious obstacle for those trying to use their yard for other purposes. They can also attract unwanted pests, like termites and carpenter ants, which may then move on to nearby trees and even your home. If you have a stump that you need to get rid of, there are several options for getting it done, including burning, grinding, and chemical treatments.

Physical Removal

This option requires a lot of work, and is only recommended for those with the physical strength to do it themselves. This involves digging around the stump and using various tools (ax, shovel, axe, chainsaw) to remove as much of the root system as possible. The remaining parts of the roots can then be either pulled out by hand or chopped up and added to your compost pile. This method can be very time consuming, and is not always practical if the stump is too large for a shovel to get a good grip on it, or is located in a tight spot.

Burning

If it is legal in your area to do so, the easiest way to eliminate a tree stump is by simply burning it. Before doing so, check with your city and county to make sure it is legal, and that the fire won’t be near any combustible objects, such as a house or utility lines. It is also a good idea to keep a water hose nearby in case of any unforeseen emergencies.

Grinding

Once the stump is completely removed from the ground, it can be used as a planter, as a base for an herb garden, or as a space to place a new replacement tree. It is a great alternative to the more labor-intensive physical methods of removing a stump, and can save you money on landscaping services down the road.

Chemical Treatment

There are a number of different commercial products that can be used to kill a tree stump, but the most common is a product called “Stump Remover”. It contains Potassium Nitrate, which works to break down wood fibers and help it decay more quickly. To use this, drill holes a few inches deep into the stump in numerous places, using the largest and widest power drill bit you have available. Fill these holes with the Stump Remover, and then water the area well. Finally, cover the stump with a plastic tarp and apply an organic mulch (tree bark or hay will work best) to hold additional moisture and prevent the chemicals from washing away. Repeat this process as needed, until the stump is dead. This can take a few months, or up to a year or so. Be patient!

from Rangeview Tree Services https://rangeviewtrees.wordpress.com/2024/09/20/stump-removal-how-to-get-rid-of-a-stump/