How to Remove a Tree Stump in 4 Easy Ways?

If you own a garden or a yard, you probably have some trees in it. Tree removal is one of the unavoidable tasks while rearranging your garden, no matter if you have only thought about it or have already done so. Surprisingly for some, cutting down a tree usually does not mean it is killed. It will typically continue to sprout, and become a home to pests. However, it is not an easy task to get rid of a tree stump with tree roots. That is why, we prepared a useful guide to help you tackle this difficult task. 

Table of Contents:

1. How to Choose an Appropriate Stump Removal Method?
2. 4 Easy Tree Stump Removal Methods
3. Method No. 1: Chemicals
4. Method No. 2: Manual Removal
5. Method No. 3: Burning
6. Method No. 4: A Stump Grinder
7. A Stump Grinder or A Stump Grinder Attachment?

How to Choose an Appropriate Stump Removal Method? 

Since there are a few stump removal methods, it is imperative to know which one works best for you. Below you can find a list of factors to consider before you select the right method for your needs. 

Stump Size 

There are different sizes of trees, therefore the stumps will also be large or small. Understandably, large stumps are more troublesome to remove. If you get rid of them manually, it is also important to consider how you will dispose of them. One option is getting in touch with your local waste disposal authorities to obtain information regarding how and where to dispose of garden waste. 

Manual Work 

The bigger the stump the more labor it will require when removed manually. Muscle work will most likely be too strenuous to successfully deal with large tree stumps. It is a practical move to either use a chemical method or a machine, such as a stump grinder or a skid steer, when removing large stumps. 

Time 

If you need your garden to be ready for further landscaping in a relatively short time, use a manual method of removal to dispose of the tree stump quickly. If the time is not of the essence, you can consider using a chemical stump remover. It is still a quicker way than waiting for a natural decay process to occur (three to seven years). 

Cost 

There is always a money factor involved, is it not? Luckily, there are various options for tree removal which are more or less expensive. Manual labor is understandably one of the cheapest options. However, using chemical products is also quite an affordable solution. 

Using a skid steer, if you purchase an appropriate attachment, may turn out to be the most beneficial option of all, considering, the money, time, and manual labor you put in. 

4 Easy Tree Stump Removal Methods 

Method No. 1: Chemicals 

If your prime worry is using labor in tree stump removal, using chemicals is just the right method for you. However, be prepared that it is not the quickest way to deal with your problem. You must consider that even a year can pass before stump removal is finished and the rotting process is over. The larger the stump the more time you will need. On the plus side, chemicals are relatively cheap so you will probably spend less than $50 (not including the cost of a a chainsaw and a drill). 

There are many types of chemicals on the market, however, one of the most popular substances seems to be Epsom salt. 

How to Use Epsom Salt to Remove Stump? 

Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) is almost a DIY aid in the fight with tree stumps. The large quantities of this substance are deadly to plants and at the same time low in toxicity. Therefore, it can be called a rather natural method of dealing with unwanted stumps. Some say, that it is not a proven way to kill stumps, but it is always worth a try, especially since it is cheap and easy. 

If you want to try using the Epsom salt, follow the below procedure: 

1. Use a power drill to drill holes in the stump (1 inch wide). 
2. Place the Epsom salt in the holes. 
3. Water the stump. 
4. Use a tarp to cover the stump (keeps the salt on the stump and does not let it get washed away). 
5. Repeat steps 1-4 every few weeks. 

The process should take around 2-3 months, and the stump should decay within a year. It is important to remember that Epsom salt should not be replaced with any other type of salt as it is harmful to the soil. 

Using Other Chemicals 

There are other chemicals on the market, such as Bonide, Spectracide, or Stump Killer that speed up the rotting process. In the case of a chemical stump remover, it takes up to 4 weeks to see the first results. 

Method No. 2: Manual Removal 

Manual removal is definitely a quicker way to get rid of tree stumps than using a chemical stump remover. It is also another relatively cheap method of getting rid of an old tree stump. However, you might have to purchase tools if you do not have them already. The downside is the manual labor you need to put into the work. 

What you will need for stump removal is a digging bar, a bow saw, an ax, and a mattock. Do not forget to wear proper protective gear such as gloves and steel-toe boots. 

Is Manual Stump Removal a Good Solution? 

It depends. If the speed of the method outweighs its disadvantages in the form of intensive manual labor, then it is a great solution. You must remember that it is only an option with small or medium-sized stumps. Large tree stumps require the use of a stump grinder. This method will be discussed later. Manual removal is how to get rid of a tree stump fast. 

Method No. 3: Burning 

Burning is another method you can do yourself with relatively little resources needed. It can also be used as a mix with other methods. To burn a stump you will need: 

1. a stump removal product 
2. fuel oil or kerosene 
3. a power drill 

Burning a Tree Stump 

The most important thing to remember before you burn a tree stump is to ask if you actually can! If you live in the city, you might need a permit from your local authorities to burn the stump. Also, remember that there are substances you cannot use as a tree stump removal product. These are, eg., motor oil, bleach, or diesel fuel. 

Method No. 4: A Stump Grinder 

A stump grinder (or a skid steer with a stump grinder attachment) uses specifically designed blades and disks to cut tree stumps and wood. Using this type of machine is the most efficient way of stump removal. It is not only quick but also safe and does not require a lot of daunting labor to perform the task. As the name suggests, this equipment grinds down the organic matter into small pieces and leaves fine sawdust. Thanks to stump grinders you can get rid of old roots and trunks fast and without the risk of damaging surroundings or incurring injuries. 

How To Use a Stump Grinder 

The only downside to using a stump grinder seems to be the fact it requires training to operate the machine properly. We may not teach you how to use the controls in your machine, but we can certainly guide you through the process of stump removal with a stump grinder. 

Firstly, make sure that the tree is trimmed to the maximum. Stump grinders work best when the stumps are ground level. 

Then, prepare the tree stump to be removed. This requires clearing any debris, rock, or the excess of soil that surrounds the stump. Use a mattock to make the work easy and smooth. 

It is high time to start grinding! Position the blades a few inches from the stump and start the engine of your machine. Now, lower the blades onto the surface of the tree stump. Next, move the grinder on the surface of the stump until it is all ground down (a few inches deep in the ground). The job is done! All that is left to do is cover the hole with soil and reseed it (plants, grass, etc.). 

A Stump Grinder or A Stump Grinder Attachment? 

A stump grinder is a one-job type of machine. However, the good news is that if you own a skid steer, getting a stump grinder attachment is a better choice. It is surely a cheaper option and if you choose your supplier well, such an attachment will serve you for many years. Skidsteers.com carries heavy-duty or extreme-duty stump grinders that will help you grind down stubborn stumps. They are made of American steel and available in low-flow or high-flow hydraulics options. If you have more questions about stump grinding or the attachment specifications, do not hesitate to give us a call or use a live chat during business hours. We are always happy to help our customers make the right equipment choice.