Getting rid of a tree stump isn’t just about improving your yard’s appearance—it also prevents pests, fungal growth, and unwanted tree sprouts. Homeowners have several options, from budget-friendly DIY methods like Epsom salt ($10–$20) to professional stump grinding ($150–$500 per stump). The best method depends on the stump’s size, tree species, and how quickly you want results.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most effective stump removal techniques, including natural decomposition, digging, burning, and chemical solutions. Whether you’re looking for a cheap DIY fix or a fast professional option, we’ll help you find the best solution for your yard.
Natural Tree Stump Removal Methods
If you want to remove a tree stump without chemicals or heavy machinery, try these natural methods. While they take time, they’re budget-friendly and safe for your yard.
Epsom Salt
Epsom salt speeds up decomposition, reducing the natural breakdown time from 3–7 years to about 6–12 months. Here’s how to use it:
- Drill at least 12 deep holes (about 1” wide and 10” deep) into the stump.
- Fill the holes with pure Epsom salt, then add water to help absorption.
- Cover the stump with a tarp to prevent rain from washing the mixture away.
- Repeat the process once a month until the stump fully decays.
When successful, the stump should be dead within 2–3 months and fully decayed after a year. Epsom salt is affordable (around $10–$20) and widely available at garden stores.
Forced Darkness
Tree stumps need sunlight to keep growing. Cutting off light will eventually kill the stump, though this method takes 6+ months.
Weigh down the cover with rocks or bricks to keep it in place, and cover the stump with a thick, waterproof tarp or a black trash bag.
Best For: Homeowners who want a low-effort, chemical-free removal method.
Boiling Water
Boiling water shocks and kills the stump’s root system, speeding up decay.
- Uncover as many roots as possible.
- Drill holes into the stump and roots to help absorb the heat.
- Pour boiling water over the stump until it’s fully saturated.
Fastest Natural Option: This method starts killing the stump immediately but still takes months for full decay.
Rock Salt
Rock salt dehydrates the stump and speeds up rot. However, it can harm surrounding plants, so use it only if other methods fail.
- Drill holes into the stump and pack them with rock salt.
- Cover the stump with soil and mulch, then water it to dissolve the salt.
- Keep the area damp to encourage fungal growth that speeds up decay.
Caution: Avoid using rock salt near grass or flower beds—it can contaminate soil and prevent future plant growth.
Read also: Organic Ways for Lawn Care
Physical Tree Stump Removal Methods
If you want to remove the stump quickly and don’t mind a bit of hard work, these hands-on methods will do the trick.
Digging
Digging out a tree stump is effective but labor-intensive. It’s best for small to medium stumps with shallow root systems.
- Fill the hole with soil and top with mulch to restore your yard.
- Dig around the stump to expose as many roots as possible.
- Use a hatchet, handsaw, or chainsaw to cut through the thicker roots.
- Remove the smaller roots using loppers or clippers.
- Once the roots are severed, lift the stump out of the ground.
Pro Tip: For large stumps, renting a power tool like a root-cutting saw can save time.
Burning
Burning is an effective way to remove a stump, but it’s illegal in some areas due to fire hazards. Always check your local fire codes before using this method. Never use gasoline—it burns too fast and unpredictably.
- Let the ashes cool, then fill the hole with soil.
- Clear away any flammable debris like leaves and dry grass.
- Drill 2-inch-wide holes at least 8 inches deep into the stump.
- Fill the holes with kerosene, letting it soak in overnight.
- Place dry wood chips, twigs, or scrap wood on top and ignite carefully.
- Monitor the fire at all times until the stump burns to ash.
Grinding
Stump grinding is the quickest way to remove a stump, but it requires renting a grinder or hiring a professional.
- Fill the hole with soil and mulch to level the area.
- Trim the stump as close to the ground as possible using a chainsaw.
- Remove nearby rocks to protect the grinder’s blades.
- Rent a stump grinder (about $100–$400 per day) or hire a pro ($150–$500 per stump).
- Use the grinder to chip away at the stump until it’s ground 6–12 inches below the surface.
Exhausting the Tree’s Food Reserves
You can also try exhausting the tree’s food reserves. This method may take years, depending on how large the tree was and its current health. If you continue cutting the tree’s sprouts off, you can eventually exhaust the tree’s food reserves, resulting in the tree’s death. This method is effective, but you must be very consistent and immediately remove all spouts for this technique to work.
Chemicals for Tree Stump Removal
Chemicals You Can Use
Here are some of the best chemical stump killers for tree stump removal:
Purchase a tree stump remover product for the best results. Many tree stump killer products have potassium nitrate, which naturally reduces the decaying process to as little as 4–6 weeks. These products are designed to be safer for the environment. You can easily find them at your local garden supply store or on Amazon.
If your dead stump is from a freshly cut tree, try a tree stump remover that uses insecticides to kill and limit sucker regrowth. Apply this product immediately after a fresh cut so it absorbs into the stem and roots quickly.
Make sure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely when using any chemical product to remove large stumps.
Chemicals You Should Never Use
These are some chemicals you should never use to remove a tree stump from your yard:
Bleach presents many dangers to the environment surrounding the tree stump because it’s not meant to be a herbicide. A high concentration of bleach may kill the tree stump. However, nearby flowers, grass, trees, and shrubs may also be exposed to the high levels of chlorine found in bleach. Bleach can also raise the pH levels of the soil, which will damage your surrounding plants.
Diesel may be a tempting option if you’re considering burning your tree stump. However, it’s not ideal for creating the long, consistent burn needed to kill the tree stump.
Motor oil is not designed for killing tree stumps. Not only this, but the cost of motor oil is similar to many stump killers, so you wouldn’t be saving money or time.
Weed killers are not designed to kill tree stumps and should be used as intended.
Common Misconceptions
Some popular DIY stump-killing tricks don’t actually work as well as people think. Here’s what you should avoid:
- Foliar Spray: Spraying herbicide on leaves only kills the foliage, not the stump or roots.
- Chopping the Tree Down: Cutting the tree doesn’t remove the stump—it can still sprout new growth unless treated or removed.
- Copper Nails: While copper nails may kill a small sapling, they won’t be effective on a mature stump.
These methods might slow the stump’s growth, but they won’t make it decay any faster. For the best results, use chemical stump removers, Epsom salt, or professional grinding.
Getting Rid of Tree Stumps: Difficult but Doable
Removing a tree stump can be tough, but the right method depends on your budget, timeline, and effort level. Once the stump is gone, think about what to do with the space. Whether you want to plant a new tree, start a garden, or lay down fresh sod, planning ahead will help you make the most of your yard.
FAQs About How to Kill a Tree Stump
The cost depends on the method you choose. DIY options like Epsom salt or boiling water cost as little as $10–$20. Renting a stump grinder costs $100–$400 per day, while hiring a professional for stump grinding or removal typically runs between $150–$500 per stump. Larger stumps or those with deep roots may cost more.Drill holes into the stump and pour vinegar into the holes. Cover the tump with a tarp to prevent rainwater from diluting the vinegar and reapply over the following weeks. Consider using horticultural vinegar, as its 20–30% acetic acid concentration is more effective than household vinegars 5% acetic acid concentration. Stronger vinegar can be dangerous to handle, however, so wear protective gear.
Alternatives to vinegar include epsom salt or rock salt mixed with water. Glyphosate is also used to kill tree stumps. It’s a systemic herbicide that’s absorbed through leaves and bark and travels to the roots to kill the stump. It’s generally more effective than natural methods, but does have legal restrictions. Be sure to check the guidelines and laws where you live before using the product.
The quickest natural method for killing a tree stump is typically a combination of techniques. Drill several holes in the top of the stump and fill them with epsom salt. Add water to dissolve the salt, and cover the stump with a tarp to prevent rainwater from washing away the salt. The salt works to dehydrate the stump and disrupt nutrient absorption.
Stump grinding is the quickest method, often taking less than an hour. If you’re looking for a DIY approach, burning a stump (where legal) can remove it in a day or two. Chemical stump removers can take 4–6 weeks, while natural decomposition methods take several months or even years.
Best For: Homeowners who want a low-effort, chemical-free removal method.
Yes, but it takes time. A tree stump can take anywhere from 3 to 10 years to decompose naturally. If left untreated, it can attract pests like termites and fungi, which may spread to nearby plants or structures.
Instead, I’d suggest focusing on safer, legal alternatives. You can grind the stump, use natural methods like the epsom salt technique, commercially available stump removers, or even hire a professional arborist for safe removal. These methods may take longer than diesel, but they’re much safer for you and the environment.
