After cutting down a tree, the remaining stump is the last obstacle to a fully cleared yard. However, stump removal can be more challenging than it seems. If the stump is left unchecked, it may start sprouting new growth, and hiring a professional for stump grinding can be costly, especially for larger stumps or those in difficult-to-reach spots—sometimes up to $800. Fortunately, there are various DIY methods for removing a stump that don’t require professional assistance. These methods can save you money while still achieving the desired result.
To remove tree stumps effectively, there are a few methods you can consider: physical removal involves digging out the stump and cutting away the roots; chemical removal accelerates the natural decomposition process; and using fire can help burn it down over time. Each method has its pros and cons, depending on your preferences and available resources. Below, you’ll find detailed instructions on how to safely remove a tree stump on your own.
Precautionary Measures
Safety is crucial when removing a tree stump, regardless of the method you choose. Here’s the proper protective gear for each approach:
- Manual removal: If you’re using a chainsaw, make sure to wear steel-toed boots, a polycarbonate face shield, chainsaw-resistant gloves, and Kevlar chaps to safeguard yourself against accidents.
- Burning: When using fire to remove the stump, it’s essential to wear a face mask, fire-resistant gloves, and protective eyewear to shield yourself from smoke and sparks.
- Chemical removal: Wear steel-toed boots, protective eyewear, and work gloves to prevent exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
- Epsom salt method: While working with Epsom salt, protect your eyes with safety goggles, and use gloves and a face mask to avoid skin and respiratory irritation.
These precautions help ensure you stay safe throughout the stump removal process.
Required Equipments and Tools
Tools/Equipment:
- Manual Method
- Digging bar
- Bow saw
- Shovel
- Axe
- Steel-toed boots
- Work gloves
- Mattock
Materials:
- Manual Method
- Water
Simple Steps to Dig Out a Tree Stump on Your Own
1. Excavate Around the Stump
Begin by using the broad side of the mattock to dig around the stump. As you dig, use a shovel to remove the loose dirt and create enough space to access all the roots that need to be severed. The larger the stump, the more dirt you’ll need to move. To make the process easier, use a hose or pressure washer to wash away dirt and expose the roots as you dig deeper.
2. Cut Through Exposed Roots
Use the pointed end of the mattock to chop through the tree roots you uncover. Alternatively, a bow saw can be an effective tool for cutting through roots as they become visible during the process.
3. Reveal the Taproot
Excavate and clear away dirt beneath the root ball to fully expose the taproot. Use a damp cloth to remove any remaining soil on the taproot, ensuring a clean surface for cutting.
4. Cut Through the Taproot
Ensure the area is free of bystanders, pets, or valuable objects. Use an axe or bow saw to carefully sever the taproot, completing the stump removal process.
5. Remove the Stump
Lift the stump out of the hole. For larger stumps, you may need assistance from ropes, chains, and extra hands or even a vehicle to pull it free from the ground.
Using Epsom Salt for Stump Removal
Drill Holes into the Stump: Begin by drilling multiple holes into the tree stump. For larger stumps, increase the number of holes to ensure better absorption. Use a drill bit with a minimum diameter of 1/2 inch and a length of at least 6 inches to penetrate deep into the wood.
Add Epsom Salt to the Holes: With the help of a funnel, carefully pour Epsom salt into each hole. Press the salt firmly into place, ensuring the holes are packed tightly to their capacity.
Moisten the Stump Surface: Wet the top surface of the stump without letting water enter the drilled holes. Keeping the salt dry allows it to dissolve gradually and be absorbed into the stump, aiding in decomposition.
Cover and Wait: Securely cover the stump with a tarp that blocks both light and water. This prevents external elements from interfering with the process. Over the next two to three months, the stump will soften and start to disintegrate, making removal much easier.
Effective Chemical Methods for Tree Stump Removal
- Trim the stump to ground level: Use a chainsaw or bow saw to cut the stump as close to the ground as possible, being careful not to let the saw blade touch the ground, which can dull the chain.
- Drill and add chemicals: Create several deep, wide holes in the stump using a large drill bit. Pour water into each hole, followed by a high-nitrogen fertilizer or stump remover granules.
- Water and cover: Saturate the area surrounding the stump with water. Place a plastic tarp over the stump to retain moisture and accelerate decomposition.
- Add mulch: Layer organic mulch, such as bark or hay, on top of the tarp to further retain moisture. Thoroughly soak the mulch with water to maintain dampness.
- Monitor and maintain: Check the stump regularly, reapplying water and nitrogen to sustain the rotting process. Replace the mulch and tarp as needed, repeating the process every few weeks.
- Break apart and remove: After four to six weeks, the stump should become soft enough to break apart using an axe. For stubborn pieces, continue applying water and nitrogen. Bury any remaining wood to allow it to decompose underground.
Tree Stump Removal Through Burning
Before attempting to burn a tree stump, it’s essential to review local regulations regarding open burning. While this practice is often permitted in rural settings, it is frequently restricted in urban or suburban areas due to safety concerns.
If you decide to use fire to remove a stump, be aware that the process demands close monitoring over several days. Smoldering stumps can pose a fire hazard, as embers may be carried by the wind, potentially igniting nearby vegetation or structures. Additionally, roots can continue to burn underground for extended periods, which might lead to unexpected damage, such as compromising septic systems or foundations.
It’s crucial to ensure the burning is conducted at a safe distance from any structures. This method is best suited for individuals who can commit to careful oversight and adhere to safety precautions throughout the process.
Drill holes and add chemicals: Use a large drill bit to make holes in the stump, then fill them with Stump Out chemical granules. Afterward, pour water into the holes to activate the chemical.
Soak with kerosene: Gently pour kerosene over the stump, ensuring it does not spill onto the ground. The kerosene will soak into the stump, and the more porous it is, the more fuel it will absorb, allowing for a longer burn.
Monitor the fire: Light the stump carefully and keep a safe distance while it burns.
Set up barriers: To keep people and animals away from the burning stump, create barriers around the area. This will help prevent accidental contact with smoldering embers, as the stump may continue to burn underground for an extended period.
When is the Right Time to Remove a Tree Stump?
Stump removal can be done any time after felling the tree, but it’s generally easier to remove a stump that has had time to dry. Allowing it to sit for a year or two will help the wood become drier and more manageable. In contrast, a freshly cut stump can be tougher to remove because the wood is still moist and harder to handle. If you prefer chemical methods, it’s best to start treating the stump right after the tree has been removed to see effective results.
FAQs
What is the quickest way to remove a tree stump?
The quickest methods for stump removal are grinding or burning. Grinding uses machinery to quickly break down the stump, while burning can take several days to fully eradicate the stump. For a faster, less messy option, applying chemicals can accelerate the decomposition process and allow for easier stump removal.
How long does it take for a tree stump to decompose?
The decay of a tree stump can take anywhere from a few months to several years, depending on factors such as its size, the tree species, and the method used for removal. If chemical treatments are applied, such as stump remover products, they can accelerate the breakdown of the wood, leading to faster decay. On the other hand, without any intervention, the process can take much longer as the wood decomposes naturally.
Is it possible to remove a tree stump on your own?
Yes, you can remove a tree stump on your own using various techniques that require minimal effort, or you can choose more physically demanding methods. Whether you go for a less strenuous chemical or burning method or take the manual approach, it’s a task that homeowners can successfully handle on their own.
