If you’ve taken a tree down recently you may still have a stump left behind. Stump removal is a separate process usually not included with a tree removal project. There are several ways of dealing with a stump including just leaving it alone. But if you’re looking for easy stump removal options, read on.

Easy Stump Removal

Depending on where the stump is, it could create a hazard in your lawn or garden. While there are easy ways of getting rid of it, some of these methods may take a while. The quickest and easiest solution is to have the tree removal company grind the stump down. Yes, this is a separate cost, but it’s worth it if you know you want the stump gone fast.

If you want to save money and don’t mind waiting a while, there’s another stump removal option. This option works best on seasoned stumps that have been sitting for a while. It’s harder to remove a freshly cut stump manually. This easy method doesn’t require a lot of manual labor, but it takes time and the right materials.

Materials needed:

• Safety glasses
• Chain saw
• Drill
• Stump removal chemicals
• Water
• Ax

Stump removal process:

1. Cut off as much of the stump as you can with a chainsaw.
2. Drill 12-inch holes around the top perimeter of the stump. Use a one-inch spade bit and space the holes evenly about six inches apart. Drill angled holes around the rim of the stump to connect with the top holes. This acts as vents to help speed the rotting process.
3. Pour a few ounces of removal chemicals down the top holes. If you’re using a granule formula, pour water down the hole as well so the chemicals soak in. Closely follow any product directions to ensure best results.
4. Now you wait. It could take up to six weeks for the rotting process to commence. You’ll know it’s happening when the stump is soft and spongy.
5. Break up the rotten wood with an ax.
6. Remove any tree roots. These spread out as far as the canopy of the tree. While the roots will eventually die out, they will try to regenerate soon after the tree is removed.
7. Fill in the hole with soil and patch it with grass seed if necessary.

Watch the Stump Burn

Another easy option is to forgo breaking up the wood and burning it instead. Once the tree has significantly decomposed from the chemicals, pour kerosene or oil down the holes. Wait a few more weeks for it to penetrate the wood. Then drop a match into the holes and let the stump smolder. This also takes time and should be done using extreme caution. If you’re going to burn the stump, enclose the area with wire fencing and make sure a garden hose can reach that far.

No matter what method of stump removal you choose, it’s always a good idea to get a professional opinion. If you have more questions about a hassle-free way of getting rid of stumps, contact Elite Tree Care for more information.