Learn how to remove a tree stump from your yard as safely and easily as possible.
There are several methods to consider, depending on factors like yourplan for the spaceafter removal and your budget.
What is the plan for the space?
Credit:Bob Stefko
Are you turning the area into awoodland garden?
If so, consider leaving the stump and allowing it to decay in place.
Are you turning a wooded spot into a vegetable garden?
You definitely need to remove those stumps.
Set realistic expectations for the space and use your judgment regarding whether or not to remove the stump.
What is your budget?
Don’t expect stump removal to be included in the price of tree removal.
It is often considered an additional service.
Ask about stump removal prices and options if you hire a company to remove your trees.
Do you better backfill the hole?
Stump removal services may or may not backfill the remaining hole after the removal.
If you plan on planting new trees or agarden bed, ask about backfilling the hole with soil.
If digging a swimming pool in the spot, you’ve got the option to skip this step.
Remember, soil settles over time.
It can take a year or more for the soil to settle.
Stump grinders are large, specialized equipment with rotating teeth that chew the stump to below ground level.
The resulting wood chips and soil are either piled in place to rot and decay or hauled offsite.
Fresh soil may be brought in, andgrass seedor sod can be applied to finish the job.
Many tree care companies offer stump grinding services.
Some companies specialize in stump grinding.
Always wear safety gear when working with tools and equipment.
Safety glasses are a must, and hearing protection is essential when working with loud equipment.
Read the manual and follow the recommendations to keep yourself and others safe.
Dig It Out
Small stumps can dug by hand.
However, it is vital to know your limitations.
If not, keep digging and cutting.
One trick is leaving a longer trunk piece attached to the stump.
A five-foot trunk piece makes an excellent lever to rock the stump back and forth and pry it out.
Cutting the stump into smaller pieces may even be necessary for easy handling.
Always call 811 before you do any digging on your property.
Each state has different laws and processes that you must follow for your safety.
Familiarize yourself with your local and state laws and regulations before starting your stump removal project.
Heavy Equipment
Stump grinders are specialized equipment that are not common inthe homeowner’s garage.
However, some people can access a skid steer, farm tractor, backhoe, or forklift.
However, if you are not an experienced operator, do not try this yourself.
Large equipment can be hazardous to operate safely, and a large stump can outmatch a large skid steer.
Some of these products contain herbicides to ensure the tree does not sprout from the base.
Most involve drilling holes into the stump, filling them with the chemical, and then waiting.
But it’s free and easy, which is something that can’t be said about most other options.
Just be sure to remove any plastic before it degrades.
Just cut it low to the ground and build a planting bed over it.
If the stump can stay where it is, then the easiest option is to just let it be.
Don’t underestimate the weight of the stump.Stumps can be heavy!
A “small” stump can still weigh more than 100 pounds, especially if soil is still attached.
There is a reason that professionals do it differently.
It is not worth ruining your vehicle to save a few dollars.
This is a dangerous and time-consuming way to deal with the problem, and it may also be illegal.
Don’t risk contaminating the soil, starting a fire, or worse to remove a stump.
Know your limitations.Figuring out how to remove a tree stump can be tricky, depending on your situation.
When in doubt, call a professional.
Otherwise, take all necessary health and safety precautions to avoid injury to yourself or your property.
