How to Remove a Tree Stump

Now that your tree is gone or has been removed an unsightly stump remains. Getting rid of this stump does not have to be difficult or ruin your yard for life. If you have any questions or concerns on how to use a stump grinder call a professional. Here is an easy step-by-step guide to help get rid of that tree stump.

Before you start cutting remember to prepare yourself and the area around you.

Before Cutting
• Use a shovel to dig up rocks and other debris from around the tree stump.
• Put on proper safety equipment and remember to dress in long sleeves and pants.
• Remove any obstacles that could interfere with the stump removal. This can include landscaping, fences, and even cars. Wood chips can fly just about anywhere if you are not careful. Move your belongings if you do not want them to get scratched or damaged.
• Make sure your equipment works; test the stump grinder before starting to cut.

Removing the Tree Stump
• After you start your stump grinder you are going to want to push the cutting wheel into the stump, pull back, and then push forward again.
• Use the machine controls and begin cutting the stump in a side to side motion.
• Lower the cutting wheel as needed to grind out the stump.
• Grind the stump out slowly and nibble it down at an even rate. Take your time and do not hurry. When you hurry mistakes are more likely to happen.
• When the tree stump is around 6 inches below grade raise the cutting wheel, position the grinder over the stump, and then lower the spinning wheel into the stump.
• Continue grinding the stump until it has been removed at a minimum of 6 inches below ground level.

Clean Up
• When you get the stump grinded down you will want to turn off all equipment and start removing the excess wood.
• Fill the new hole with screened topsoil and pack down. Make the soil a little higher than your yard because it will settle and some will wash away with rain and wind.
• Either put sod down and water thoroughly or plant grass seed over the topsoil and lightly rake into the area before watering.

This Old House offers a video for you to watch on how to remove a tree stump.