How To Remove An Old Tree Stump

If you have a tree stump in your yard, you probably want to get rid of it. There are many options to remove an old tree stump including digging it up, grinding it, and burning it. You can choose any method outlined below to remove the unsightly tree stump. 

Dig It Out:

1.    Use a shovel to dig around the entire stump to expose the roots. 

2.    Dig as much of the dirt surrounding the tree stump as possible, going as deep as you can into the earth.

3.    Cut the roots using an ax or a root saw and pull them out of the ground. Use a hoe to remove the roots right down to the tips. 

4.    Remove the stump by wiggling it back and forth and using your shovel to pry it out of the ground. Cut and pull out any additional roots that you find under the stump.

5.    Fill the hole with loam or sawdust every few months until the ground stops settling and you have a level surface. 

Grind The Stump:

1.    Rent a stump grinder from a local rental store and get yourself work gloves, goggles, and ear protectors.

2.    Turn the stump grinder on while holding it above the stump. 

3.    Move the stump grinder around over the surface of the stump as well as the large roots around the stump as well.

4.    Shovel out the grindings and fill the hole with loam or sawdust every few months until the ground stops settling and you have a level surface.

 Burn the Stump:

1.    Check your local fire bylaws to see it is legal to burn a stump in your area. 

2.    If it is legal, build a fire on top of and around the stump you want to remove. 

3.    Keep adding wood to your fire to keep the fire burning long and hot. It may take several hours to get the fire hot enough to burn the stump right down to the ground. 

4.    Once the stump has burnt down to the ground, you can shovel out the ash.

5.    Fill the hole with loam or sawdust every few months until the ground stops settling and you have a level surface. 

Whichever method you choose to remove your old tree stump -- especially if you go through professionals such as Lawn-Tech, Ltd. -- you will be successful in completely removing the stump from your property without a trace that a tree ever stood there.  

Share