Tree stumps are unsightly and can cost a fortune to have removed. Or you can do it yourself. Removing a tree stump by yourself costs next to nothing but requires a bit more time than calling in a professional.
Removing the Tree Stump
All you need is a tree stump removal product and a drill. Tree stump remover is essentially just a solution or powdered mixture consisting of primarily potassium nitrate. The potassium nitrate causes the wood to rot at a much faster rate than when left naturally, allowing you to pull it out yourself after a few months. You can either buy a removal product from a hardware store or make your own by dissolving a cup of water with a half cup of potassium nitrate. Potassium nitrate should be available from your local pharmacist or chemist.
Now take a drill with a 20mm (1”) wood drill bit and drill some deep holes into the centre of the stump and the roots. Once you have drilled some holes, pour the solution into the holes. If your product is in powdered form, place a few tablespoons in each hole and fill them up with water.
Now you need to wait. The stump may take anything from three months to a year before it has rotted enough for you to remove it although this depends on the type and size. Large stumps and hard woods from slow growing trees will take longer to rot than softer woods and smaller stumps.
If you are in a hurry to remove it then consider calling in a professional. They have the right tools for the job and although messy, they will have it out in a day. If you really want to do it yourself quickly then you can rent a stump grinder which is a large machine with tungsten carbide teeth designed to shred it. Most machinery rental companies will offer stump grinders and will probably deliver and collect it for you.
Great article thank you for sharing.