How to Get Rid of a Stump

Removing a tree stump from your yard is a challenging task, but it’s often necessary for safety, aesthetics, and future landscaping plans. At Torres Tree Service, we’ve helped countless homeowners tackle this issue. In this article, we’ll discuss effective methods for how to get rid of a stump, ranging from DIY solutions to professional services.

Urban Forest Pros (2024) Tree stumps are an eyesore, a tripping hazard, and they can attract unwanted pests like termites or even fungi and bacteria. If left to simply decay and rot away on its own, without any sort of treatment, a stump can take up to ten years to disappear.

1. Chemical Removal

This method is slow and requires minimal effort:

1. Drill holes into the stump
2. Fill holes with a potassium nitrate stump remover
3. Add water and wait 4-6 weeks
4. The stump will become spongy and easy to remove

Pros: Inexpensive, low effort

Cons: Time-consuming, chemicals may affect surrounding plants

Family Handyman (2024) drill evenly spaced holes roughly every 6 to 8 inches around the perimeter of the stump. Make the holes about 12 inches deep and three to four inches back from the edge.  Drill more holes three to four inches down from the rim at a 45-degree angle to connect with the first holes. Be sure the angle of the lower intersecting holes is above horizontal and they meet the vertical holes at a point well above 12-inches. 

2. Grinding

Stump grinding is a fast and effective method:

1. Hire a professional stump grinder
2. Kick back and relax.

Pros: Quick, thorough removal

Cons: Can be expensive, especially for large stumps

3. Manual Removal

For smaller stumps, manual removal is an option:

1. Dig around the stump to expose roots
2. Cut through roots with an axe or saw
3. Remove the stump and fill the hole

Pros: No chemicals or expensive equipment needed

Cons: Labor-intensive, may not work for large stumps

4. Burning

In areas where it’s legal, burning is effective:

1. Drill holes in the stump
2. Pour kerosene into holes
3. Ignite and monitor the fire until the stump is gone

Pros: Is effective for dry stumps

Cons: Potential fire hazard, may be illegal in some areas

5. Natural Decay

The most hands-off approach:

1. Cut the stump as close to the ground as possible
2. Cover with soil and mulch
3. Keep the area moist to encourage fungal growth
4. Wait 1-3 years for complete decay

Pros: No effort required after initial setup

Cons: Very slow process

Professional Removal

Professional stump removal ensures quick, safe, and complete elimination of your tree stump. At Torres Tree Service, we have the expertise and equipment to remove stumps of all sizes.

Remember, the best method for your situation depends on factors like stump size, location, and your timeline. If you’re unsure which approach to take, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation. We’re here to help keep your yard safe and beautiful!

References:

Family Handyman. (2024, May 10). How to remove a tree stump painlessly (diy). https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-remove-a-tree-stump-painlessly/

Urban Forest Pros. (2024) How to get rid of tree stumps (2024) guide. Urban Forest Pros. https://www.urbanforestprofessionals.com/portland-or-tree-care-services/stump-rot/