Avoiding Common Tree Mistakes

Avoiding Common Tree Mistakes

Two Simple Ways To Remove A Tree Stump

by Chiara Brun

Tree removal companies often charge an additional fee to remove the stump of the tree. If you don't want to pay an additional fee to have the stump removed, it's left in your yard for you to remove. Fortunately, removing the tree stump doesn't have to be difficult. In fact, there are a couple of ways that you can remove the stump on your own.

Dig the Stump Out

If you had a large tree removed, it may not be possible for you to dig the stump out. However, if the tree that was removed is on the smaller side, digging out the stump isn't too hard.

  1. Using a shovel, dig out the dirt sitting around the circumference of the tree stump. You want to make sure you expose as much of the roots as possible.
  2. Cut the roots off of the tree stump using a root saw or an ax. 
  3. Cut the roots that you've removed into smaller portions and put them in a pile to dispose of later.
  4. Using a grub hoe, pull the roots that are remaining out of the ground. You may need to cut the remaining roots into smaller pieces as you go so they are easier to manage. Make sure you remove the roots of the tree all the way to the tip.
  5. Use your shovel to pry the tree stump from the ground. As you work your way around the stump, cut away any roots that remain as they become exposed, and pull the roots from the ground.
  6. Continue the process until the tree stump is completely removed.
  7. Dispose of the tree stump and roots.
  8. Fill the hole with topsoil, and if you want, plant grass seed in the topsoil.

Remove the Stump with Chemicals

It's a lot less work to use a chemical stump remover to remove the tree stump than it is to dig the stump out of the ground. However, the process does take a lot longer because you need to wait for the stump to absorb all of the chemicals. Keep in mind, using a chemical stump remover to remove your tree stump isn't ideal if you have pets or small children that could accidentally ingest the chemicals.

  1. Put a long drill bit on your drill. 
  2. Drill holes in the top of the tree stump. Make sure the holes cover the entire top of the stump and are spaced evenly so that it's easier for the chemicals to be absorbed.
  3. Prepare the chemical stump remover and apply it as directed on the package.
  4. Wait for the stump to begin rotting.
  5. Chop up the softened stump using an ax.
  6. Continue to chop away the stump until it is almost level with the ground.
  7. Dig out the remainder of the stump using a shovel.
  8. Fill the hole with topsoil and plant grass seed, if desired.

The fact is, the easiest way to remove a tree stump is to pay the tree service company to remove the stump when they cut down the tree. However, if you want to avoid the fee, you can remove the stump by digging it out or using chemicals to rot the stump.


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About Me

Avoiding Common Tree Mistakes

I have always been one of those people who isn't afraid to get their hands dirty, which is why I started trimming my own trees. However, after doing it by myself for a few years, I realized that my yard was starting to look a little DIY, which wasn't the look that I was going for. To make things right, I decided to invest in a professional tree service who could come out and fix up my yard. They were amazing to work with, and they even came with all of their own equipment. This blog is all about the benefits of professional tree care, versus doing things on your own.