How To Get Rid Of Tree Stumps

How To Get Rid Of Tree Stumps

How To Get Rid Of Tree Stumps

Tree stumps are removed partly for aesthetic reasons and partly for practical reasons.  It is certainly easier mow without the stumps.  And there is no "tripping hazard".

Stump removal can be dangerous.  Use common sense.  Do not attempt it if you are not positive of what you are doing.

For smaller tree stumps:

Dig around the stump.  Keep out from the stump about a foot or more.  Further is better (although it takes more digging)

Use a saw and saw any roots encountered.  Or an axe can also sometimes be used to cut them.

Fasten a chain or cable under the root and use a jack.  A car jack works well.  Then jack it out.

Or use a lever.  Ideally a piece of heavy metal or a stout staff.  Do not risk breaking a shovel.  A pick axe can sometimes work.

A chain with a tractor, car or truck can also work.

For larger tree stumps:

You can rent a stump remover.  These can be dangerous so make sure you are well trained and wear proper protective gear.

There are lots of services that will do stump removal for you.  These of course come at a cost.  Often tree removal services or lawn and garden services will offer this service.

If left on their own, tree stumps will simply rot over time.  So time is one way to remove them.  To speed up rotting, you can drill holes in the top of the stump.  This will allow water to sit and promote faster rotting.  Or rotting can be speeded up by "fertilizing" the stump.  One way to do this is to pile mulch or manure on the stump.  Water it.  Then cover with a plastic sheet to keep the moisture in.  Water it periodically.  When watering, take a few minutes and chop away some of the rot so the water can begin working again.  Depending on the type and size of tree, it will take a year or so to decompose.

A tree stump can be a great exercise program.  Get an ax or a maul and simply start chopping.  Depending on the size of the stump, this can take weeks or months of 10-15 minutes per day.  This is cheaper than a gym and great exercise.

There are chemical stump removers that work over time.   Simply sprinkle them on and watch the stump dissolve over time.

Click here for more information on how to get rid of tree stumps.