When trees are cut, that is half the task. After cutting down a tree, the left-over stump may be an eyesore, and even a danger. When not attended to, a stump is likely to grow or become a home to pests such as termites. The bottom line is that you need to kill the tree stump.
This article explains the technique of killing a tree stump with a variety of methods that are effective and do not need the skills of a professional.
Why You Need to Kill a Tree Stump
Before diving into methods, it’s important to understand why stump removal is necessary:
Keeps growth in check: Most trees, particularly hardwood like maple or elm, will grow shoots off the stump.
Prevents pest infestation: Stumps can attract termites, ants, beetles, and fungi.
Enhances both safety and aesthetics: Stumps can be dangerous, promoting tripping, but also will lower the curb appeal of your home.
Frees up space in the yard: If you have plans to lay down some garden, a patio, or even just to mow the lawn without any trouble, the stump must go.
Best Methods to Kill a Tree Stump
A tree stump can be killed in several ways. There are fast ones that are expensive, and there are slow ones that are inexpensive.
These are the most effective methods:
Chemical Stump Killer (Most Common Method)
Timeframe: 4-6 weeks
Effort: Moderate
Cost: $10-$30
Step-by-Step:
Cut the stump low: The closer to the ground, the better it will be; use a chainsaw to cut the stump near to the ground.
Make holes: Use a power drill to make holes of approximately 8-10 inches deep and an inch across on the top of the stump.
Use a stump killer: Take stump remover (i.e., Spectracide or Bonide or Roundup) and pour into the holes.
Add water: Add a bit of water to make the chemical absorb into the wood.
Board up: Get a tarp or garbage bag to keep the rain out and enhance the efficiency of the chemical.
Wait and observe: In a few weeks, the stump will start softening and rotting. Wood that has softened up can be chopped.
Note: Wear gloves and eye protection, and always follow the instructions on the product.
Epsom Salt or Rock Salt (Natural Alternative)
Timeframe: 1-2 months
Effort: Low
Cost: Under $10
Step-by-Step:
Drill holes: As in the case of the chemical method, drill holes in the stump.
Put in salt: Fill holes with Epsom salt or rock salt (not table salt–this will harm other soil).
Add water: Add water to the holes to dissolve the salt.
Cover and wait: Cover stump with a plastic tarp to protect from sunlight and moisture.
Salt removes the moisture content of the wood and dries and kills the stump slowly. This is an acceptable alternative when you want to avoid the severity of chemicals.
Burning the Stump
Timeframe: 1-2 days
Effort: High
Price: Inexpensive, and will need safety measures
Step-by-Step:
Check local rules: There are a lot of regions where outside burning is prohibited or has rules. Always get approval first.
Prepare the stump: Drill holes and fill with potassium nitrate (to accelerate burning).
Light fire: Use kindling and a fire starter. Do not use lighter fluid or gasoline.
Supervise the fire: Allow it to reduce slowly, and wipe off the ashes.
Clean up: Clean up any remaining charcoal, and bury or grind up any remaining wood.
Warning: This may be a dangerous way to do it. Always keep burning stubs attended to.
Stump Grinding (Quick but Requires Equipment)
Timeframe: A few hours
Effort: Medium to high
Cost: $100-$300 (rental or pro service)
Stump grinding is the best way to go if you want the results quickly.
Options:
Subcontract: Stone the stump to under-ground level and remove the rubbish.
DIY rental: Hardware stores such as Home Depot or Lowe’s have stump grinders that you can rent.
Pro Tip: When the wood is ground, you can make the wood chips into mulch or compost.
Digging Out the Stump (Manual Method)
Timeline: Two or three hours or days
Effort: High (labor-intensive)
Cost: Free to low (tools only)
In the case of small or medium-sized stumps, it is possible to excavate it by hand.
Tools You’ll Need:
- Shovel
- Axe or mattock
- Saw
- Pry bar or chain
How to Do It:
- Dig around the stump to get roots out.
- The biggest roots should be cut with an axe or saw.
- Wiggle the stump and prod it out.
- Use soil or mulch to fill the hole.
How Long Does It Take to Kill a Tree Stump?
| Method | Timeframe |
| Chemical Killer | 4–6 weeks |
| Epsom Salt | 1–2 months |
| Burning | 1–2 days |
| Grinding | Same day |
| Digging | Several hours–days |
It is up to you to decide which approach to use and whether you want to achieve a quick outcome or not.
Tips to Prevent Stump Regrowth
Even after killing the stump, follow these tips to make sure it doesn’t come back:
- Sprouts should be sprayed with herbicide upon cutting.
- Keep an eye on the part and trim for any new sprouts emerging.
- Cover the stump with something to avoid sunlight and oxygen.
- Whenever possible, remove the root system.
What Not to Do
Do not use gasoline or motor oil: It is very harmful to the environment, and it is prohibited in most regions.
Don’t leave a stump untreated: It may take years to rot off.
Do not forget about local laws: Heed laws if you intend to burn the stump.
