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Commercial & CivilNot sure how to remove a tree stump? The good news is that there are multiple ways to get rid of a trunk’s final remnants, from burning to grinding. The best option depends on your budget, tools and time constraints, as well as the size of the stump itself.
Below, we share the four most effective DIY methods for removing tree stumps – plus how to know when it’s time to call in the professionals. This step-by-step guide also includes the tools you’ll need to get started, so that you can say goodbye to that stubborn stump for good!
If the tree stump is small enough and you feel confident in your digging skills, you may be able to remove it manually without the need for a chemical product, stump grinder or fire.
Circling around the stump’s base, loosen the topsoil with the mattock’s broad end. Then use your shovel to dig down until the root system is revealed.
Chop and pull out the visible roots with a pruning saw or axe, depending on their size. For a smoother sever, make sure to remove the surrounding soil first.
After the upper roots have been removed, keep digging underneath the root ball to expose the taproot. Leverage the stump as a sort of lever, hauling it up to show the roots below. Then wipe the taproot with a wet cloth to remove excess dirt before cutting it with an axe or pruning saw.
Once all of the roots have been taken care of, pull the stump out of the ground with your hands. Finally, don’t forget to fill the hole with soil so there’s no dangerous dip in your backyard.
The easiest way to remove a tree stump is with chemicals. However, this process can take weeks and lasts particularly long if you are removing a larger stump.
Drill evenly-spaced holes across the top of the tree stump. Then drill holes into the side of the stump, connecting them with the holes drilled down from above. Angle the side holes horizontally to prevent chemicals from dripping to the ground.
Pour the manufacturer-recommended amount of tree stump removal chemicals into every hole. Then add water to each hole. Leave the tree stump to absorb the solution and rot over the next four to six weeks (again, check the product’s instructions manual for a precise wait time).
You’ll know the tree stump is ready for removal once it has become spongy in texture. If the stump still isn’t soft enough, repeat this step as necessary.
When ready for removal, use a shovel to dig out the tree stump and its roots. Finally, fill the hole in with dirt.
A stump grinder uses sharp teeth to chip away at the wood until it is completely gone. This is the quickest but arguably most labour intensive way to remove a tree stump. Additionally, if you already don’t own a stump grinder then you will need to hire one, which can be quite expensive depending on the provider.
If you do not own a stump grinder, then you will need to rent one from a local provider. Before you go near it, read the instruction manual and put on safety gear, such as leather gloves, protective goggles and earmuffs.
Turn on the spinning cutting wheel and gradually lower it over the stump. Move the grinder in sideways motions until the stump has been reduced to tiny chips.
Last but not least, remove any debris from the hole and fill it with new soil until it is level with the surrounding ground.
Another option is to burn the stump. But before you strike a match, it’s essential to ensure that you’re permitted to light fires in your neighbourhood at this time of year.
Clear away any flammable materials, such as dried leaves and twigs, around the tree stump to prevent the fire from spreading. Afterwards, put on protective clothing such as gloves and safety goggles to prevent burning yourself.
Drill a 20cm to 25cm-deep hole in the centre of the stump at a 30-degree angle. If the stump is too short, simply drill until you hit the roots. Repeat this process across the top of the stump, spacing each hole 2.5cm to 7.6cm apart.
If you can still see the sides of the stump, drill holes around its perimeter and connect them with the holes that were drilled from above. Space each side hole approximately 2.5cm apart.
Remember to remove any debris in each hole – the better the air circulation within the stump, the quicker it will burn.
Fill the drilled holes with fuel oil or kerosene, making sure to drench the entire tree stump.
Light the fire and monitor it carefully until the stump has turned to ash. Afterwards, throw some topsoil over the ash to help put out any remaining embers.
Next, use a shovel to cut away any remaining roots or chunks of stump. Place this debris in a fire-safe container, rather than on the surrounding grass – which could start another fire. Finally, fille up the hole with fresh soil and cover with turf seed to help new grass grow.
Now you know how to remove a tree stump with four different DIY methods. If you’re getting rid of a smaller tree stump, have time to spare and are happy to operate heavy equipment, then you can get to work today!
That said, removing a tree stump can be difficult and time-consuming if it’s reached a certain size or located in a tricky place, such as on sloping land.
If you’d rather get the job done quickly, safely and effectively, then call the certified arborists at Agility Trees. We can remove entire trees or just their stumps with unparalleled efficiency. Check out the video below for yourself!
Get a free quote for professional tree removal and stump grinding across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Cessnock and Port Stephens. Alternatively, call our friendly team on (02) 4058 3149 for more information.
Disclaimer: this article is intended to serve as a general guide only. Please consult a professional for tailored advice and follow all safety precautions before removing your tree stump.
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