For anyone who has ever had to remove a tree from their property, they know that removing the tree is often the easy part. Whether it is a small tree that you cut down yourself or a large tree that you contract with a tree removal company to remove, you will see that cutting the tree goes pretty quickly. Addressing what remains-the stump-is often a much harder task.
That said, removing a tree stump is a project that can be undertaken yourself. While many people-especially those who have had a large tree removed-will just hire a contractor who will use a stump grinder to remove the stump-there are a number of different ways that a do-it-yourselfer can undertake a tree stump removal project.
Here is a simple step-by-step guide on how to remove a tree stump:
- One of the best ways to remove a tree stump is to dig around the stump using a shovel. This will allow you to expose the roots of the tree, which is an essential aspect of removing the stump.
- After you have exposed the roots, you will need to use an ax to cut the roots out. Ideally, you will be able to dig down far enough where you can use an ax to cut up the large roots and remove them by hand. Small roots can probably be removed with a shovel, but it depends on the type and size of the tree. Similarly, small tree stumps may be able to be removed in their entirety.
- The main portion of the stump can be taken apart with an ax. This will likely involve a lot of work and frustration. Expect to be going at it for quite some time, but with persistence you should be able to remove the stump. If you find that you cannot, try the additional two methods listed below or hire a contractor.
- After you successfully remove the stump, you will want to fill the spot in with new soil. Be sure to fill it tight until the ground is level. Similarly, make sure all of the stump is removed.
There are also two additional options that can be used for do-it-yourself stump removal:
- Chemical Removal – Another way of removing a tree stump is to purchase a commercially available stump removal product from your local garden or home improvement store. Basically, you just drill a series of holes in the stump and pour the chemical-followed by some water per the manufacturer’s instructions-into the holes. Over several weeks, the chemical will accelerate the rotting process making it easier to remove the stump with an ax.
- Burning the Stump – In remote areas-or anywhere where local regulations allow it-building a fire over the tree stump is a way of removing the stump. Ideally, you will set aside several days-such as a weekend-before undertaking this method. You will want to clear off the stump and dig a pit around it to expose the roots and then cover the stump with scrap wood. The fire will slowly burn out the stump. This can be used on stumps of varying sizes and it is a great way to remove a stump that might otherwise be difficult to remove. You will want to keep a close eye on the fire, so you might want to combine this with other yard projects.