In this article I’m going to look at a few different ways to remove tree stumps. I’m sure you have at some time come across an unwanted stump that you wanted to remove. It may be in the way of where you want to plant something, or possible some landscaping work or even in the middle of the lawn and you have been mowing around it for years. The good news is there are several ways to remove stumps. Some are easier than others and it does depend on where a stump
Dig Out Stump
.Although this may be the most back breaking method of how to remove tree stumps it may be applicable in some instances. I would only recommend digging out stumps for small stumps and for fit strong people that have not had any back problems. It can be very physically demanding.
Step 1: Dig around the stump to expose the major structural roots. Dig away as much excess soil as possible as this will make the later steps easier
Step 2: Cut the roots with a hand saw or axe. Clean as much soil away as possible if using saw.
Step 3: Try to dig under stump and cut any lower roots and again dig away as much soil as possible.
Step 4: Lever the stump by pulling on the stump or using a lever such as crow bar. By rocking back and forward the soil and remaining roots will break free.
Positives: Most of the woody material from stump is removed from the soil
Negatives: The stumps are often very heavy with the soil and difficult to dispose of. Tip fees for stumps can be very high.
Pulling Out Stump
This method looks at how to remove tree stumps using a mechanical means to leaver the stump out. In the photo they are using a winch on the vehicle to pull out the stump. The combination of pulleys and cable/rope increase the winching force.
The above can also be achieved by a hand winch system provided there is another tree or anchor point you can lever off. Levering off other trees can damage the tree so be sure protect the trunk with carpet or padding before placing any slings around the trunk. Also keep low down on trunk to reduce the leverage on tree to be retained.
Step 1: Dig around the stump to expose the major structural roots as per previous method.
Step 2: Cut the roots with a hand saw or axe. Clean as much soil away as possible if using saw.
Step 3: Try to dig under stump and cut any lower roots and again dig away as much soil as possible.
Step 4: Connect the cable / winching method and lever the stump out. If it does not want to break stop and continue to dig to cut more roots.
