How to Perform Stump Removal

A leftover tree stump is a visual distraction that detracts from the look of your yard. In addition, it can pose a tripping or falling hazard and prevent you from replanting and achieving the landscaping you want. Stumps can also attract pests and spread diseases to other trees, which is why it’s important to remove them as quickly as possible.

Stump removal can be labor-intensive, but it’s also a relatively inexpensive way to clear your yard of an unsightly and potentially dangerous object. It’s best to use a stump grinder, but you can also dig out the stump manually using a shovel and a mattock or axe. Wear safety gear such as work gloves and steel-toe boots when performing this task.

Burning the stump

You might be tempted to pour kerosene over a stump and light it, but this method can be dangerous and costly, not to mention damaging to your lawn and surrounding plants. There are a few ways to go about burning a stump. First, drill holes into the stump and fill them with potassium nitrate or another chemical that speeds up wood decay. Then, pour water over the holes to disperse the chemicals and cover the stump with a plastic tarp. Wet the tarp regularly to keep it moist, and eventually it should rot away.

A more environmentally friendly option is to use Epsom salt. This is a cheaper and safer alternative to chemical stump removal, and it can be done with the same steps as the potassium nitrate method. Just drill holes into the stump and fill them with this natural mineral, then cover it with a plastic tarp to trap moisture. The tarp creates a miniature ecosystem that accelerates decomposition, and you can remove the stump when it’s completely rotted.

Letting it rot

If you’re patient and don’t mind a rotting stump in your yard, you can simply let it decompose on its own. This is a cheap option for homeowners who aren’t in a rush and can wait several years before having it removed. The process is accelerated by the use of fertilizer, especially nitrogen, which exposes more wood to fungi that speed up the rotting process.

Ultimately, the decision to remove a stump will come down to your personal preferences and budget. If you’re on a tight schedule, hiring a professional will save you time and money and ensure the job is done correctly the first time around. Otherwise, a little patience and the right tools can make it easy to remove even the largest of stumps from your property. By removing a stump, you’ll open up your yard to new possibilities and reclaim land that would otherwise be wasted. You can then plant a garden, reseed your lawn or use it for outdoor seating. Stumps aren’t just unsightly, they can limit the growth of your landscape and affect your property value. So take the time to decide which option is best for you.

from Sunshine Coast Tree Lopping Caloundra https://ift.tt/8CF5SLI