You managed to chop down that troublesome tree in your yard, but now the leftover tree stump removal is proving to be an even bigger headache. Removing it isn’t as simple as you might think and has probably left you feeling stuck. But don’t stress! Here are five proven techniques to eliminate that stubborn tree stump for good.

1. Remove the Tree Stump by Hand

If you’re not keen on using chemical methods or want to skip the waiting game associated with other stump removal options, manually removing the stump is a practical and budget-friendly choice—especially if you already have the tools. While it can take a few hours depending on the stump’s size and your available equipment, putting in the effort will ensure that stubborn stump is gone for good.

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• Digging bar ($30 – $50)
• Bow saw ($10 – $30)
• Ax ($30 – $40)
• Mattock ($15 – $50)

Make sure to gear up with work gloves and sturdy steel-toe boots before you begin to stay safe during the process. With the right tools and preparation, this method will get the job done.

How to Physically Remove a Tree Stump by Hand

Manually removing a tree stump is an effective way to eliminate it quickly. That said, this method requires significant effort and is best suited for small to medium-sized stumps. If you’re dealing with a particularly large stump, a stump grinder will likely be necessary—a tool we’ll explore further later on.

Step 1: Grab the broad end of a mattock (similar to a pickaxe) and start digging around the base of the stump to loosen up the dirt.

Step 2: Use a shovel to clear away the loose soil until you can see the tree roots more clearly.

Step 3: Take your mattock or a small bow saw to cut through the roots connecting the stump to the tree. You can choose to remove these roots entirely or leave them to naturally decompose later.

Step 4: Keep digging and chopping until you uncover the taproot and have enough space cleared around it.

Step 5: Use either an ax or a bow saw to cut through the taproot.

Once you’ve successfully cut through the taproot, you can begin to wiggle and pull the stump free from the soil. This process can take several hours, but when you’re done, the stump will be completely gone.

Another effective way to manually remove a tree stump is by using a wedge, which is demonstrated in this helpful video.

2. Utilize a Stump Grinder

If you’re faced with a particularly large stump or have several old stumps to clear, renting a stump grinder is one of the most efficient DIY solutions. These machines can be rented from most local home improvement stores, with costs typically ranging between $100 and $200. Along with the stump grinder, you’ll likely need a few additional tools to ensure the job goes smoothly:

• Shovel
• Mattock
• Rake
• Chainsaw

How to Get Rid of a Tree Stump Using a Stump Grinder

Stump grinders are heavy-duty machines, often weighing as much as 1,000 pounds. Before you rent one, ensure you have a vehicle capable of hauling it, or check if the rental service offers delivery and pickup.

Step 1: Start by clearing away any rocks, dirt, or debris around the base of the stump with a mattock or a sturdy shovel.

Step 2: Take your chainsaw and cut the stump down as much as you can, bringing it as close to ground level as possible.

Step 3: Position the stump grinder wheel just a few inches above the stump and turn it on.

Step 4: Slowly lower it to about 3 inches into the stump while moving it from side to side using the machine’s lever controls.

Step 5: Grind into the stump about 4 inches at a time with the rotating wheel, continuing the process until the entire stump has been reduced to at least 4 inches below the ground.

3. Tree Stump Removal Using Chemicals

Using chemical treatments is one of the easiest ways to get rid of tree stumps without much physical labor. That said, it’s a slow process, especially for larger stumps. In fact, depending on the size, it could take as long as a year to completely remove the stump since the chemicals essentially work by rotting it over time.

The upside is that this method is affordable, particularly if you already own a chainsaw and drill. The additional materials you’ll need typically cost less than $20. Here are five effective chemical options to consider for removing stubborn tree stumps.

Expert Tip: When shopping for a chainsaw, make sure to choose one that offers the best value for your budget.

If you plan to remove a small tree stump using this method, here’s what you’ll need:

• Potassium nitrate or Epsom salt
• A chainsaw and a drill
• An axe
• A plastic tarp
• Garden mulch

How to Eliminate a Tree Stump with Chemical Solutions

Once you’ve gathered all your supplies, you can start the process. Keep in mind that chemical stump removal isn’t an instant fix—it usually takes around four weeks before you’ll notice any progress. While natural decay can take anywhere from three to seven years to fully eliminate a stump, using chemicals speeds up the process significantly.

If you’re not a fan of harsh chemicals like potassium nitrate or fuel oil, a natural alternative like Epsom salt can do the trick. You can simply swap out the potassium nitrate for Epsom salt and follow the same steps.

Step 1: Begin by cutting off as much of the visible portion of the stump as you can with your chainsaw. Don’t forget to gear up with safety goggles and steel-toe boots to protect yourself while you work.

Step 2: Drill a series of holes into the remaining stump, spacing them close together. Use your largest drill bit for this and make the holes as deep and wide as possible to ensure the chemical or Epsom salt can penetrate effectively.

Step 3: Begin by pouring water into the drilled holes, then mix in the potassium nitrate. If you’d rather go with an alternative, you can use a high-nitrogen fertilizer, Epsom salt, or specialized granules made for breaking down tree stumps.

Step 4: Drench the soil around the stump with plenty of water until it’s well saturated. After that, place a plastic tarp over the area. The tarp will trap the moisture and help speed up the rotting process by creating the ideal damp environment.

Step 5: Layer organic mulch over the tarp and give it another thorough watering. This will help retain moisture, ensure the area stays wet, and support the decomposition of the stump over time.

Step 6: Periodically inspect the stump’s progress. Add more water and nitrogen as needed, then reapply mulch and water to maintain moisture.

Step 7: After 4–6 weeks, the stump should feel spongy. If so, use an ax to break it apart. Remove the debris and cover the area with soil, plant grass, or create a flower bed. If it’s still hard, repeat the process.

If progress stalls, consider using the burning method instead.

4. Use Fire to Eliminate the Stump

Burning is another practical DIY method for getting rid of a tree stump and can be done on its own or paired with other removal strategies. To carry out this method, you’ll need these essential items:

• Kerosene or fuel oil
• A tree stump killer like Stump Out
• A power drill

How to Burn a Tree Stump

Burning a tree stump is an efficient way to get rid of it when done safely and correctly. Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Use a power drill to create deep holes in the stump and add a powdered tree stump removal product into them. This will make the wood more porous and easier to ignite.

Step 2: Pour kerosene or fuel oil into the drilled holes, soaking the stump thoroughly. This allows the porous wood to absorb the fuel evenly.

Note: Avoid using bleach, diesel fuel, or motor oil, as they are unsafe and ineffective for this method.

Step 3: Light the stump carefully and let it burn, ensuring the flames smolder consistently. Once the fire has almost completely burned out, cover the remaining embers with topsoil to extinguish them completely.

This technique is quick and effective but always check local fire ordinances or permits, especially if you live in a city or built-up area, before attempting this method.

5. Hire the Experts

If spending weeks, putting in countless hours, setting fires, or handling heavy machinery doesn’t sound appealing, hiring a local tree care expert is a great alternative. If you’re already having a tree removed, consider asking the same company to handle the stump removal as well. While they may charge extra, you might be able to negotiate a better rate since you’re already using their services.

On average, hiring a professional tree service to remove a stump will cost between $175 and $516 per stump. To estimate the price more accurately, measure the stump’s diameter and multiply it by $2 to $5. The typical cost for professional stump removal is around $326.

For stump grinding, costs usually range from $158 to $450, depending on the size of the stump. The average expense for this method is approximately $313.

Hiring a tree service to handle stump removal usually ranges from $175 to $516 per stump. To gauge a closer estimate, measure the stump’s diameter and multiply it by $2 to $5. The average cost for professional stump removal sits at about $326.

Expert Insights

Renting a stump grinder typically costs between $200 and $400, but in some cases, hiring a professional tree removal service might save you money. Gerald Williams, the owner of C-Trees & More in Houston, Texas, explained that many of the stump grinders available for rent at places like Home Depot aren’t powerful enough for larger stumps.

“I’ve seen people rent these machines and try to handle the job themselves,” he noted. “They end up exhausted and still need to call a professional to finish the job.”

Williams also pointed out that while stronger, commercial-grade stump grinders are available for rent, they can cost $400 or more. Furthermore, operating these machines requires expertise and additional equipment to transport them effectively.

FAQs

What’s the Most Cost-Effective Way to Remove a Tree Stump?

The most affordable method to get rid of a tree stump is by covering it with a lightweight, waterproof tarp. While this approach is budget-friendly, it tends to be slower than other options, though faster than letting the stump decompose naturally over time.

Alternatively, if you have the right tools, you can try removing the stump manually or drilling holes and applying Epsom salt to speed up the process. Both of these methods are economical and effective options for those on a budget.

Can Rock Salt Be Used to Remove a Tree Stump?

Yes, rock salt can be an effective way to remove a tree stump, though it’s a gradual method that can take weeks or even months to fully work. Here’s how you can go about it:

1. Drill deep holes into the stump.
2. Pour rock salt into these holes.
3. Add water to the holes to dissolve the salt.
4. Wait several weeks to allow the rock salt to penetrate and kill the stump.
5. Once the stump becomes soft and spongy, remove it using an ax or other appropriate tools.

Another approach is to create a 2:1 water-to-rock salt solution, pour it over the stump, and cover it with a tarp. Repeat this process weekly to ensure the moisture and salt continue to draw out the stump’s nutrients, eventually killing it. Over time, chip away at the dead wood pieces as they break apart until the stump shrinks enough to pull from the ground.

What Happens to the Roots After Stump Grinding?

Over time, the roots will naturally decompose and break down, reintegrating into the soil. Since they are underground, they won’t cause as many problems as leaving a visible tree stump behind. However, if you’re worried about leftover roots causing issues, you can apply the same stump removal methods to eliminate them as well.