Old and sick trees pose a safety risk to people, while structures such as houses and utility lines risk damage in case the trees fall.
These, plus many others, are the main reasons why you removed that pesky tree from your property. However, that tree removal was just the tip of the iceberg.
With proper adherence to professional guidelines, tree removal is relatively more straightforward compared to what is ahead: stump removal.
Unlike trees, stump removal is intricate and engaging and takes time. This article explains five methods you can use for stump removal.
Manual Removal
Manual stump removal is the most engaging technique, which entails rolling up the sleeves and getting physical.
Do you need help removing a tree stump in NJ?
This approach is purposely for those that have extra calories to burn and some time off their busy schedules. To do this, you first take an ax and dig around the stump’s base to reveal the roots. Ensure to go a little below the stump to make the work easier. Then take an axe and cut the roots off the stump. Using a hammer, drive a wedge at different sections of the stump surface to split it into smaller pieces for easier removal. Better still, you can tie a steel chain link around the stump and use a truck to pull it out. Please be advised that this technique is designed for small-medium stumps.
Chemical Removal
The least demanding and engaging removal approach is using chemicals to break down the stump. Some main chemicals used include stump remover and other chemicals rich in nitrate and potassium. You are advised to be patient with this removal approach since it may take several weeks before the chemical dissolves the stump completely. The approach is done by drilling all over the stump surface using the most significant power drill bit. Water is then poured into the holes until the entire stump is saturated. Saturation works by enhancing diffusion of the remover by distributing it throughout the base. The remover is then poured into the holes and the stump covered in a plastic sheeting. The sheeting provides some warmth, which is necessary for expediting the process.
Stump Grinding
Though not as physically engaging as manual removal, stump grinding is a little labor-intensive. Your strength comes in handy when driving the grinder. This is because the grinder is heavier, weighing a few tens of pounds. To do this, use a mattock to loosen the debris and soil from the stump base. Then use a shovel to remove the debris until a quarter of the stump is above the surface. Use the grinder to cut through the stump to a few inches below the surrounding base. Return the wood chips into the depression and cover it with soil to bring the area to level with the base surrounding.
Burning
Another stump removal approach that does not call for much of your physical engagement is burning. The only time your energy is required is during the drilling of holes on the stump surface. Be sure to use the most significant power drill bit so that the holes can accommodate as much fuel as possible, for easier and expedited burning. Then, pour your preferred fuel into the holes to fill. Stack some firewood pieces all over the surface for proper and more straightforward burning. Ignite the stack firewood and let it burn until the stump is a few inches below the base surrounding it. To put out the fire, cover the burning stump with soil. Finish the approach by filling the depression with the soil you removed.
Natural Decay
As the name suggests, this approach entails decaying the stump using the most natural ways. For that reason, a significant limitation arises from decay lead times. To do this, spread fertilizer or other nitrogen-rich material such as compost on the stump surface, sprinkle some water, and cover it with mulch or plastic sheeting. This is better than mulch since it will encourage warmth accumulation, critical to decay. The approach is only feasible for people who are not in a hurry to dispose of the stump since the process can take a few years.
Whichever approach you adopt, you first have to study and understand the legal and local ordinances. Some local jurisdictions allow some approaches while prohibiting others, depending on the prevailing laws and regulations. Going against such provisions could mean battling serious legal battles or imposing hefty fines.
