How to Remove a Tree Stump

After felling a tree, you are left with a stump. It can be an eyesore, a trip hazard, or just in the way of what you want to do with the space. Here are the main ways to get rid of it.

Method 1: Dig it out

For small stumps (up to about 30cm diameter), digging out by hand is often practical. It is hard work but costs nothing except time.

1. Dig a trench around the stump to expose the roots.
2. Cut through the roots with a pruning saw, loppers or axe.
3. Keep digging and cutting until you can lever the stump out.
4. Fill the hole with soil and compact it down.

This method removes the stump completely, including the main roots. It is best for stumps in accessible locations where you have room to dig.

Method 2: Stump grinding

A stump grinder is a machine with a rotating cutting wheel that chips away the stump below ground level. This is the most common professional method and works for stumps of any size.

You can hire a stump grinder, but they are heavy and potentially dangerous. For most homeowners, it makes more sense to hire a professional with their own machine.

Grinding typically takes the stump down 15-30cm below ground level. The roots are left in place but will rot away over time. The wood chips produced can be used as mulch or removed.

Method 3: Chemical stump killer

Stump killer products (usually containing glyphosate or triclopyr) speed up the rotting process. This is a slow method but requires little effort.

1. Cut the stump as low as possible.
2. Drill holes into the top surface and sides of the stump.
3. Apply stump killer according to the product instructions.
4. Cover with a tarp or plastic sheet to keep rain out.
5. Wait – it can take 6-12 months for the stump to rot enough to break apart.

This method is best for stumps that are not in the way and where you are not in a hurry.

Method 4: Burning

Burning a stump is possible but takes time and attention. It works best on dry, seasoned stumps.

1. Drill holes into the stump and fill with vegetable oil or paraffin.
2. Let it soak in for a few weeks.
3. Light a fire on top of the stump and keep it burning.
4. The stump will smoulder and gradually burn down.

Check local regulations before burning. In many areas, you need to notify the fire service or may not be allowed to burn at all. Never leave a burning stump unattended.

Method 5: Leave it to rot

If the stump is not in the way, you can simply leave it. Cut it low, cover with soil or mulch, and let nature take its course. Most stumps will rot away within 5-10 years, faster if you drill holes and keep them moist.

You can also turn a stump into a feature – a base for a planter, a wildlife habitat, or a rustic seat.

Which method should you choose?

• Small stump, need it gone now: Dig it out.
• Medium to large stump, need it gone quickly: Hire a stump grinder or professional.
• Not in a hurry, want low effort: Chemical treatment.
• Rural location, dry stump: Burning may be an option.
• Out of the way, no rush: Leave it to rot naturally.