To remove a tree stump using the chemical method, you typically use a stump remover product, often containing potassium nitrate (saltpeter), to accelerate the natural decomposition process. This involves preparing the stump by drilling holes and applying the chemical.
The chemical method softens the stump over time, making it easier to break apart or burn (where permitted).
Steps for Chemical Stump Removal
This process focuses on softening the wood to allow nature or subsequent steps to finish the job. Here's how to apply the chemical method based on common practices:
- Prepare the Stump: Ensure the stump is relatively clear of surrounding debris. If it's a fresh stump, you might need to cut it down as close to the ground as possible.
- Drill Holes: Using a drill with a 1-inch bit, 8 to 12 inches long, drill deep holes in the top of the stump spaced 3 to 4 inches apart in all directions. Drilling numerous, deep holes is crucial as it allows the chemical to penetrate the wood effectively. Drill some holes on the sides of the stump as well, slanting downwards towards the center, especially if the stump is large.
- Apply Chemical: Fill each hole with stump remover/saltpeter. Follow the product instructions for the exact amount.
- Activate the Chemical: Top each hole off with boiling water to dissolve the saltpeter. This helps the chemical soak deeper into the wood fibers immediately.
- Keep Moist (Optional but Recommended): Some sources suggest covering the stump with a tarp or plastic sheeting weighted down around the edges. This helps retain moisture, which can aid the decomposition process.
- Wait: The chemical process takes time. It can take several months, sometimes up to a year or more, depending on the size and type of stump, the chemical used, and environmental conditions. The stump will gradually soften and rot.
Understanding the Process
Stump removers containing potassium nitrate work by increasing the nitrogen content in the wood. This provides a nutrient source for naturally occurring fungi and bacteria that cause wood decay. By concentrating these nutrients within the drilled holes, the decomposition process is significantly sped up compared to natural decay alone.
What Happens After?
Once the stump has significantly softened and decomposed, it becomes much easier to remove. You can:
- Dig it out: Use an axe, shovel, and possibly a pickaxe to break up and remove the softened wood and roots.
- Burn it (Check Local Laws): In areas where permitted and safe, the chemically treated stump will burn more readily. Extreme caution is required if choosing this method. Ensure the area is clear, have water or a fire extinguisher handy, and never leave the fire unattended.
- Let Nature Finish: You can also simply leave the softened stump; nature will continue the decomposition, eventually returning it to the soil.
Choosing the chemical method is often less labor-intensive than manual digging or grinding, though it requires significant patience.
