What is the best way to pull a tree stump less than 12" in diameter?

Question

I've cut down various white pines, oaks and poplars on my property and the stumps vary from 12" to 3". My wife is tired of looking at them and wants me to pull them. I'd like some technique tips. Thanks in advance

Answer 1

It depends on how tall the stump is. If it is tall enough then you could dig around the stumps and pull them out with a 4WD vehical. You can also rent a stump grinder and just grind it away.

Answer 2

If you want this done in a day and u dont want to go rent a stump grinder or use expensive chemicals, just dig around the stump....maybe about 5-6 inches, until you expose a couple of key roots. Then just go at then with an axe. If the stump is 12 inches the roots would probably be managable. knock out 3 or 4 big runner roots and out comes the stump. You can push dirt right back on top and you are ready to go.

Answer 3

The other option is to use the stuff found in nurseries called "stump remover". It's a chemical as stated above. Drill several holes in the stump. Put the solution(sometimes it's powder and will need water added) in the holes. Fill a coffee can that's had the top and bottom removed with charcoal and set it on top of the stump. Light the charcoal being very careful not to burn down the neighborhood. The slow burn of the charcoal will send the chemical down to the roots of the stump thereby killing it quicker. I'm not sure how long you'll have to wait before it desinigrates. Good luck.

Answer 4

Don't pull it; grind it down. You can rent a stump grinder at a home store like Home Depot.

Answer 5

There is a chemical solution at your local hardward store, and there are local companies that specialize in this thing if you're in a hurry.