Different Methods of Removing Stumps

Stumps can be an eye sore on any property.

When you remove a tree the left over stump can ruin the aesthetics of the yard and become an eyesore. There are several different ways to remove a stump from your property and return the beauty to your yard. Stumps can be removed manually or chemically.

Manual Removal

Remove small stumps by hand using the right tools. To remove a stump by hand, use a shovel to dig around the stump and uncover the roots. Use a root saw to cut the roots away from the stump. Once all the roots are removed, dispose of the stump and roots in a compost pile.

Stump Grinder

A stump grinder is a machine with a set of teeth that rapidly grinds away at the stump and its roots. Dispose of the leftover pieces of stump in a compost pile or bin and fill the hole with soil. Stump grinders are available for rental and many companies will use a stump grinder to remove stumps for you.

Backhoe

Backhoes are often used to remove stumps, however, backhoes are the most expensive method of tree stump removal. They also cause damage to the lawn, creating a mess that is time consuming to clean up. A backhoe is only recommended for construction sites that need to remove large numbers of stumps

Chemical Removal

Speed up nature's natural processes with chemical removal, rotting the stump out of the ground. Use a hand drill to make wide holes in the stump. Fill the holes with water and then add the chemicals. Wet the ground all around the stump to help the ground absorb the nutrients given off by the decomposing stump. Cover the stump with a tarp and place wet mulch on top of the stump. This will help weigh down the tarp and allow the stump to retain moisture. While this process speeds up the stump removal it requires patience and is not recommended for those who need a stump removed quickly.

References

• Thisoldhouse.com: Chemical Stump Removal
• Gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu: Removing Tree Stumps