How to Remove Tree Stumps by Hand
One of the more difficult landscaping tasks you will ever undertake is that of removing a tree stump. Extensive roots, rocks, hard soil and an almost-sentient stubbornness on the part of the stump make the removal a time-consuming and sweaty job. However, so long as you refuse to give up and aren't afraid of a little hard work, you can defeat any stump that dares cross your path. Equipping yourself with the right tools will help. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Utility Bar
- Cutter Mattock
- Digging Spade
- Small sledgehammer
- Gloves
- Chain (optional)
Instructions
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1
Put on your gloves. You are about to embark on a very labor-intensive task. If your hands are not accustomed to this type of work, they will be torn up or form blisters.
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2
Dig a trench that encircles the tree stump, keeping approximately 20 inches away from the base. Dig at a slight, inward angle towards the tree stump. Use your digging spade to remove the soil and place it out of your way. If you encounter roots or hard, rocky dirt, use your cutter mattock or utility bar to cut or break through.
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3
Cut through all the roots that stand in your way as you dig the trench deeper beneath the stump. Imagine that, as you dig, you are creating a funnel shape below the stump.
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4
Begin driving your utility bar into the trench below the stump. Try to wedge the flat end of the bar under the stump so that you can pry it upward. Do this around the entire perimeter of the stump, prying and loosening as you go.
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5
Use a small sledgehammer to drive the utility bar further under the stump. This may be especially useful for large stumps or stumps with extensive root systems. Again, you may need to drive the utility bar under the stump at several different points around the perimeter. Continue prying. The stump will eventually break free.
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6
Use your bar to pry the stump all the way out of the ground.
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Tips & Warnings
If the stump is too heavy, you can lash a chain around the base of the stump and attach the chain to a pickup or tractor in order to pull it out. If you attempt this, pull slowly and carefully.
References
- Photo Credit tree stump image by green308 from Fotolia.com
