How to Remove a Tree Stump
- 1). Allow nature to do the job. If the stump is not located where it detracts from your landscaping, cover the stump with soil. Over time, it will decay making it much easier to remove with a shovel. The process may take months or years depending on the size of the tree stump.
- 2). Apply a decay accelerant. There are commercial products available that will hasten the decay process. This usually entails drilling holes in the stump. Carefully follow the directions on the package.
- 3). Dig the stump out of the ground. If the tree stump is small and the roots are not too deep, hand digging may be the best option for removing the stump. Use a shovel to dig around the stump until the roots are exposed. Use loppers, an axe or a saw to cut the roots. After pulling out the roots, use the shovel or a crowbar to lift the stump.
- 4). Utilize a stump grinder. This machine has carbide teeth that grind up the stump 6 to 12 inches below the ground. The stump grinder is a good option for quickly removing small and medium size trees. It will also eliminate large stumps, but will take longer. If you have a huge stump or many stumps of various sizes, this is a good choice.
- 5). Burn the stump. Pile pieces of wood scraps on the stump to get the fire going. The fire should be maintained for as long as it takes to eliminate the stump. Burning is not allowed in many areas, so be sure to check the burning code before choosing this process for stump removal.
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