Expert’s Guide To Stump Removal
Tree stumps can be unsightly and problematic but can also be good wildlife habitat (fruit tree stumps for example are great for stag beetles). While you may be relieved to have finally gotten rid of the troublesome tree, the stump left behind can cause just as many issues.
However, stump removal is not a simple process and it can take longer than you might think, without the right equipment.
Stump Grinding
Stump grinders are the most common and effective way to remove a stump in situ. They shred/smash the stump up, leaving a mixture of shredded wood and top soil behind. This can be removed and replaced with top soil or left to root down over a period of 12mths.
Either way it is important to remove the grinding from the hole to check that you have ground all the stump. A common problem is missing a bit, that gets covered by grindings or not grinding deep enough.
You might only discover the error when you are digging out the area to do something else. Having the grindings removed allows you to check the job has been done properly.
Beechwood Tree Care can offer comprehensive tree stump removal by grinding out your stumps. However, there are some cases where stump grinding is not suitable, meaning you need to search for alternative stump killing or removal methods.
No Stump Grinder? No Problem!
While a stump grinder is the most effective method for stump removal, it is not the only one and there are other ways you can remove or kill off a stump. Some of the most common alternative stump removal methods include:
Manual Removal. But be prepared to sweat, its hard work.
Manual stump removal can be an effective solution for small stumps or shallow-rooted trees. It is also a great stump removal alternative for those seeking a more environmentally friendly solution, as no harmful chemicals or specialised tools are needed for this process:
1. Use a shovel or mattock to dig around the tree stump and expose as much of the tree roots as possible. Aim to reveal large roots or lateral roots, if you cannot expose large surface areas.
2. Once the roots are exposed, cut through them using a pruning saw or bow saw. If the roots are thick, an axe or chainsaw may be required for a precise cut. The aim, whatever the method you use, is to sever the connections between the stump and the surrounding soil so it can be removed.
3. Now that these connections have been severed, you should be able to loosen the stump from the ground. Gently rock the stump back and forth to loosen it. Steps one and two may need to be repeated at this stage to help sever more ties.
4. Once the tree stump is loose enough, lift it out of the ground. This may not be a one-man job, based on the size and weight of the tree stump.
5. Fill the remaining hole with soil to level it.
While manual stump removal can be an effective solution in some cases, it is important to remember that it is time-consuming and labour-intensive so may not be suitable for everyone.
Mechanical Removal
Simply put using a 360 excavator to dig out the stumps. This can be very a very effective method for removing small stumps but for large stumps it can be a lot harder than you would think.
Getting rid of the stump after digging. Be aware that digging out the stumps is not the end of the problem. Lifting a stump and then disposing of it can be equally challenging.
Beechwood Tree Care has a range of excavators expertly operated by experienced staff that can swiftly remove stumps for you, with ability to dispose of the stump afterwards.
Chemical Stump Treatment
If you are dealing with stumps from vigorous species such as willow or lime, chemical treatments may be a good alternative to stump removal.
Chemicals can be used to kill off regrowth from the stump, meaning the stump can be left in situ and making it easier to remove at later date.
While there are many chemical treatments out there, we prefer EccoPlugs as a great alternative for stump removal.
Easily installed they
- Are 95-100% effective on treated stumps.
- Are 100% selective, with no effect on surrounding trees or vegetation.
- Work on a wide range of tree species.
- Reduce the risk of chemical wash off or spillage.
- Support the requirements of the Sustainable Use Directive to minimise herbicide use.
- Support the requirements of the Water Framework Directive to prevent contamination of waterways with pesticides.
This can be an effective process for stopping regrowth from stumps and does not require as much labour as other alternative stump removal methods.
However, this is not the right method for those seeking quick results, as it can take weeks or months for chemical to kill the stump, or if the stump is in the way because you want to replant or dig up the area.
When To Call The Experts For Stump Removal
Beechwood Tree Care are here to offer an effective stump removal solution. We provide a comprehensive stump grinding service which can be tailored to suit all landscapes and tree stumps, delivering the results you want without the time and energy required to do it yourself.
Hiring professionals like us is the best solution if you are dealing with large stumps or those with deep root systems, as we have streamlined the process and rely on professional skills to get it done right.
Contact Us Today
For our professional stump removal services or to learn more about what we do, please contact the team today.
