While the process that’s associated with a tree removal can prove to be pretty straight forward. The same thing can’t be said when it comes to removing a stump. This is why stump removals are usually not included in the cost of a tree removal. This is also one of the primary reasons why many people choose to leave old stumps in their backyard.
Removing Tree Stumps
Before you can begin the process of removing a tree stump, you need to evaluate the tree stump before hand, so that you can utilize the best technique. Each illustrated removal technique is based on the perceived difficulty that you may experience.
When it comes to determining how easy the process of removing the stump will be, the age and the size of the stump are two big indicators. Said in simple terms, the older a tree stump is, the easier it will be to remove it. Additionally, stumps that are of a smaller size, will be much easier to remove than stumps that are of a larger size.
Technique 1 – By Hand
Smaller sized stamps can be easily removed by hand. For this method you will need:
– Shovel
– Chain
– Chainsaw
– Ax
– Four-wheel-drive truck
1. Use the chainsaw, to remove any branches that may be protruding from the trunk.
2. Use the chainsaw to remove the top section of the trunk.
3. Use the shovel to dig and to reveal the roots that are connected to the stump.
4. Cut the major roots of the stump with the ax.
5. Try to see if you can push the trunk. If not, check to see if there are any uncut roots that are still connected to the stump and cut them.
6. If the trunk fails to budge even after you have cut its roots, wrap the chain around the stump and connect it to a four-wheel-drive truck,
7. Alternate between pulling forward and reversing so that you can wiggle the stump from its foundation.
Technique 2 – Grinding
When it comes to stumps that are of a medium size that present a challenge, one option that you can utilize is tree stump grinding. As far as the prices that are associated with a heavy duty grinder that is needed for this tree stump grinding technique goes, you should be able to rent a unit for $100 – $200.
Things you will need:
– Grinder
– Chainsaw
– Rake
– Shovel
1. Use the shovel to clear any debris that may be within close proximity of the stump.
2. Use the chainsaw to cut away as much of the stump that you possibly can.
3. Use the hydraulic level on the grinder to raise the unit a couple inches above the height of the stump.
4. After you have turned on the unit, lower it down by approximately 3 inches into the stump and move it side to side, via the lever.
5. Repeat the process until the entire stump is at least 4 inches under the ground.
Technique 3 – Rot
This is an ideal method to utilize when it comes to dealing with larger sized stumps. The concept here, is to soften the stump with a chemical solution so that it can will literally soften and fall apart.
For this technique, you will need:
– High nitrogen fertilizer
– Drill
1. Drill a variety of holes directly into the stump. They should be at least 8-10 inches deep.
2. Pour the high-nitrogen fertilizer into each of the holes that you drilled.
3. Pour water into the holes.
4. As the stump softens, chip it off, piece by piece.