Want to learn how to remove a tree stump? In this blog we will outline the two safest options which do not require the use of chemicals or fire.
There can be many reasons for wanting to remove a tree stump. Depending on its location, a stump can be a hazard for people and vehicles, so needs to be dealt with on safety grounds. If the stump is in your garden, you may wish to use the area for planting, or for a patio.
Whatever the reason, you can either take the DIY approach and do the job manually, or you can call in the professionals.
How to remove a tree stump by hand
Providing that the tree stump in question is not too large, you could try removing it using manual methods. Please be aware that this will be hard work and involves heavy tools, so is not the recommended option for novice gardeners.
Using this approach, you will be able to take the tree stump out of the ground in one piece, so you could reuse the wood as garden furniture.
The manual time-consuming process requires digging the surrounding area using a shovel and mattock. Your aim is to expose as much of the main roots as you can, so that you can slice through the larger roots using an axe or saw. Clear as many roots as possible by pulling them out of the ground.
With most of the roots removed, you should be able to start moving the stump. This will allow you to dig underneath the stump to severe the bottom roots. Once removed, the hole can be backfilled with soil, but will need to add extra topsoil to make a level surface.
While manually removing a tree stump is possible, it is a lot of work and can damage a large area. If the trunk is near a building, fence or another tree, this technique may not be possible.
How to remove a tree stump using a stump grinder
For those who may not have the time or tools for the DIY approach, the safest and quickest option is to call upon the services of a professional with a stump grinder. Here at Branching Out, a stump grinder is our preferred method of removing tree stumps.
Before work commences, we conduct a full assessment to ensure the area is safe and has been cleared of foliage, stones and other hazards. Our qualified and experienced tree surgeons wear the appropriate safety clothing and personal protection equipment to minimise the risk of injury.
Before using a stump grinder, we may need to use a chainsaw to lower the stump as much as possible, to reduce the amount of grinding required.
Stump grinders are powerful pieces of machinery and can tackle stumps in almost any garden location. Mounted on wheels, the grinder can easily be moved into position. The front arm extends out at the front and contains whirring sharp blades to chop up the stump and roots to below ground level.
Once in position, the operator starts the engine and moves a lever to direct the grinder blades onto the stump. The arm is then moved across the stump until the wood has been removed several inches below ground.
When the stump and any remaining roots have been removed, the area can be tidied up and the wood chippings and soil can be used to fill the hole.
Do you need advice?
If you want to know more about how to remove a tree stump, contact us at Branching Out Tree and Garden Services. We are NPTC and Lantra qualified local tree surgeons who cover the North Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire area. If you require professional help and advice, learn more about our stump grinding services here.