Tree Stump Removal

Tree stumps are the remnants of the tree after it is cut down, the part just above the roots of the tree. Under normal circumstances, tree stumps can be left alone, but in certain areas like the city, neighborhoods, or even your own lawn or garden, tree stumps can be a nuisance. Especially because tree stump removal could be the most difficult part of removing trees.

There are many ways to remove tree stump problems in an area, but they vary in convenience and cost. The easiest, but most costly way, is to rent a stump grinder, or employ a company that can do everything for you. A stump grinder is a machine that bears down on tree stumps and literally grinds them until nothing is left. These machines are very powerful, and can easily dispatch tree stumps, but like mentioned earlier, this process can be expensive.

An alternative is to burn the tree stump. This method can be very cheap, but it has its downsides. First, the resulting fire could be hazardous, especially if the stump is located alongside other vegetation. The flames could easily jump out and burn other plants, or worse, could grow and burn the whole area. Second, burning stumps produces smoke, which can be very uncomfortable to other people, like neighbors and passers-by. Third, depending on where you live, it may be illegal.

People can manually remove the tree stump on their own, by using pitchforks, shovels, and chainsaws, to systematically grind down the stump and dig it out. But while this could be cheap, and arguably safer, it takes a lot of effort to do, not to mention a lot of time.
For those who do not wish to rent expensive machines, risk burning their houses, and work tediously for hours on end, there are many tree stump removal chemical products available on the market. These chemicals, whose main ingredient is Potassium Nitrate, work by hastening the stump’s decaying process. Once the stump has decayed, which usually takes 4-6 weeks, the stump will easily break into pieces. Those who are in a hurry to remove the stump can combine burning and using chemicals, but great care has to be taken.

As mentioned earlier, tree stumps are normally harmless. In fact, in some gardens, tree stumps can be used as seats or tables, and can be decorated. However, some people will want to use the area occupied by the stump, and this is where removing the stump is needed.

Depending on the situation, tree stumps can be left alone or removed. When they do need to be removed, however, consider the options mentioned above in order to choose what is best for you.

Other Topics of Interest:

Tree Removal:  Trees are an integral part in most areas and neighborhoods, as they provide shade, fresh air, and visual beauty. However, sometimes, trees get in the way of things like construction, landscaping, and other infrastructural development. This is when removal is necessary.

Garden Lighting:  Property lighting of a garden can make it as beautiful at night as it is during the day. View lighting options for your garden here.