Shrub stumps, the remnants of removed woody plants, can present multiple issues in a landscape, ranging from an unsightly appearance to posing a tripping hazard. They can also prevent the use of the space for new planting or construction, and the remaining root system can sometimes sprout new growth. Successfully removing a shrub stump depends on factors like its size, root system type, and available budget and time, leading to several distinct approaches.
Removing Stumps by Hand
Physical removal is the most direct and cost-effective method for small to medium-sized shrub stumps, relying entirely on manual effort and basic tools. This process requires a sturdy shovel, a mattock, and a pruning saw or loppers for cutting roots. First, clear the area around the stump and use the shovel to dig a trench, approximately a foot wide, to expose the lateral roots radiating outward from the stump base.
The mattock is used to chop through smaller, tougher roots, while a pruning saw severs thicker roots. Cut the roots as far from the stump as possible to minimize the chance of regrowth. Once the majority of the lateral roots are cut, rock the stump back and forth to loosen it and find the main taproot, which anchors the stump deep into the soil.
The taproot must be severed completely, often requiring deep digging to access it fully. Once the taproot is cut, the stump can be pried out of the ground using the shovel or a digging bar as leverage. This method is labor-intensive, but it offers immediate and complete removal of all woody material.
Accelerating Decomposition with Chemicals
Chemical decomposition offers a less strenuous alternative to manual removal, utilizing agents to dramatically speed up the natural decay process. This method begins by cutting the stump down as close to the ground as possible, then drilling multiple holes into the remaining wood. The holes should be about one inch in diameter and several inches deep, drilled uniformly across the stump face and angled slightly downward to hold the chemical agent.
A commercial stump remover, commonly formulated with potassium nitrate, is poured into these drilled holes and saturated with water. This high-nitrogen environment feeds the fungi and bacteria responsible for breaking down wood fiber. High-nitrogen garden fertilizer, such as urea, can also be used as a substitute to achieve a similar effect.
The treated stump should be kept consistently moist and covered with a plastic tarp or mulch to retain humidity and heat, optimizing microbial activity. While this process significantly reduces the time required for decay, it is not instantaneous; removal may take several weeks to many months.
Using a Stump Grinder
For large, mature, or hardwood shrub stumps, a stump grinder is the fastest and most efficient mechanical solution. The grinder uses a powerful, rotating cutting wheel with sharp teeth to chip away the wood, reducing the stump to a pile of wood chips. This method is preferred when the stump needs to be eliminated quickly, or when the manual effort required for digging is too great.
Before operating a grinder, clear the area of all rocks and debris, as these can be launched by the cutting wheel, posing a serious hazard. The operator must wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hearing protection, and steel-toed boots. The grinding process involves moving the cutting wheel back and forth across the stump, gradually lowering the depth until the stump is ground several inches below the soil line.
The decision to rent a machine or hire a professional depends on the stump’s size and the user’s comfort level with heavy equipment. Renting a smaller, walk-behind grinder can be a viable option for a homeowner, provided all safety protocols are strictly followed. The final result is a hole filled with wood chips and soil that is ready for new topsoil or planting.