01 Sep
Trees are undeniably vital for the ecosystem and offer a wide range of benefits to your landscape, like providing shade and purifying the air, among many others. However, even with routine maintenance, trees are still vulnerable to infections, infestations, and physical damage. If you detect signs of deterioration on a tree in your yard, Southern Star Stump can help you assess the severity of the damage and help you get rid of the eyesore. In addition, a reputable tree care company will not just leave after cutting a tree down but will recommend viable stump removal options.
There are several ways a stump removal provider can remove a stump without damaging your landscape or nearby structures. For homeowners who prefer a more hands-on approach to stump removal, consult a tree care company before tackling the project to ensure it is performed efficiently and safely. Here are some DIY stump removal techniques you can use if you have the proper gear.
This entails using chemicals to get rid of a tree stump, which is easy to perform. The major downside to chemical stump removal is that the results are slow since the stump has to rot, making it ineffective if you are on a timeline. Some of the tools you need before starting the process include chemical stump remover, power drill, plastic tarp, cutting tools, axe, and mulch.
Once you have everything you need, use the cutting tools to remove the part of the stump that’s above the grass level. Drill wide holes on the remaining stump and ensure they are deep enough and close to hold the removal solution. If you don’t have a drill, a hammer and chisel can be used to make the holes. Next, water the area around the stump and apply mulch to ensure it doesn’t dry quickly. The stump should be softer after a month, and an axe can be used to cut off the remains.
If you don’t have the luxury of waiting for the chemical process, you can always remove it manually. However, this method is quite rigorous and time-consuming. It would help if you had a shovel, loppers, a grub hoe, safety equipment, and an axe. Start by digging next to the stump with a shovel, exposing the root system underneath.
Dig deep on either side of the stump to expose the roots as much as possible. Next, cut the roots into pieces using a root saw, loppers, or any sharp tool, depending on the size. After cutting the roots into small pieces, pull them out using a grab hoe. Make cuts as you go to make the process easier and faster.
Burning a stump is the quickest and easiest method of the three. If you reside in a neighborhood with a homeowners’ association, you must ask permission to avoid hefty fines and penalties. You only need tools, a drill, fuel, and powdered potassium nitrate. Drill holes on the stump and add potassium nitrate before filling the holes with water.
Once the solution has been absorbed, it means it is now flammable. Light the stump and monitor the fire to prevent it from spreading. Finally, dig out the stump after it completely burns and turns to charcoal. Contact us at Southern Star Stump and schedule a consultation with our tree service for more information on DIY stump removal.
