If that old tree stump in your yard has become an eyesore and you’re finally ready to do something about it, you’ve got several options. Removing tree stumps can be very expensive if done so professionally. On the other hand, removing stumps can be very hard work, if you decide to do it yourself. Before endeavoring to remove tree stumps, consider what type of tree stump needs to be removed, how many, and what the sizes of the stumps are. Knowing this information can help you determine the best and perhaps most economical way to remove stumps. Here are some options for removing tree stumps:
Hire a Professional Tree Stump Removal Service
You may want a professional to remove tree stumps in your yard if the tree stumps are large and/or have deep root systems. For example, a pine tree has large and very wide root systems while oaks have much deeper roots along with a tap root that grows directly down. Thus, removing a pine tree stump is much easier work than removing an oak tree stump. For trees like the oak, it may be necessary to pay someone to remove them. If you go this route, be sure and get plenty of quotes before selecting the final vendor.
Manually Remove the Tree Stump
If the tree stump is small, removing the stump may be a job you can do yourself. After cutting down the tree, use a spade to dig a trench around the perimeter of the stump. With the spade, turn it around backward and pry it against the stump in an effort to loosen it. Also, use the spade to remove soil that rests on top of the tree’s roots. Then use a sharp-edged cutter to cut and destroy the roots. You can also use the cutter to insert into the soil and loosen the tree stump. Once you feel the stump start to move against your efforts, use the spade or even a large tree branch to hoist up the stump from the soil.
Use a Tree Stump Grinder
A tree stump grinder is a device that has sharp blades fitted on a wheel that chop the stump. Before using the grinder, be sure and remove any stones or other debris from the tree stump area. Use a chainsaw or ax to chop the stump as much as you can before using the grinder. Once you start with the grinder continue on until the stump is completely chopped. At this point, you should be able to remove the rest of the stump with a spade.
Use Chemicals to Remove the Tree Stump
Some people opt to use chemicals that are available at a garden center to help rot the tree stump. (Amazon link to the best seller) Holes should be drilled into the stump both vertically and horizontally so that the chemical can reach deep within the stump. Most people use Potassium Nitrate but a word of caution: be careful and keep pets and children away from the stump as it rots (which will take time).
Use Fire
Again, great caution should be used if you decide to burn the stump. Before you do this, make sure with your local officials that you are allowed to burn stumps. To burn use kerosene or fuel oil, but do not use gasoline. Drill holes into the stump before adding an accelerant.
