Landscaping Tips - Removing Tree Stumps From Your Lawn or Backyard

Trees can make your backyard or lawn more appealing to the eye. However, the stump that remains after cutting down a tree does not have the same aesthetic appeal. While removing the stump will make your lawn look uniform, the problem lies in getting it out of the way. Some trees such as oaks have deep root systems while others such as silver maples have shallow roots. Here are some great tips that you can use to get rid of tree stumps.

Stump Grinding

In some cases, digging out a tree stump can cause structural damage to your house. This is where a stump grinder comes in handy. This machine consists of a spinning blade fitted with tipped teeth that chew away stumps. Take note that a grinder can only work up to a limited depth (usually 10 to 12 inches below ground level). If you do not have a grinder at home, you can hire one or pay tree removal in Edmonton contractor to do the work. When using the grinder, make sure there are no children or people standing nearby because the spinning blade tends to send debris flying all over the place.

Hand Digging

If the stump is for a small shallow rooted tree, consider hand digging. All you need are common tools such as an axe, hoe, shovel, winch, and root saw. Start by digging around the stump to expose the roots and then use an axe or root saw to cut them. You can then use a winch to pull the stump out of the ground. Remember a winch can easily turn into a powerful and dangerous weapon if not properly anchored.

Chemical Stump Removal

If you do not want to engage in too much physical work, you can use chemicals to remove the stump. Take note that chemicals take time to decompose the stump. The majority of chemicals manufactured for this purpose use potassium nitrate as the active ingredient. To use the chemicals, drill holes in the stump at least eight to 10 inches deep. Place the chemicals in the holes and add water to ensure the active compounds seep as far as possible inside the stump. Finally, cover the stump to ensure children or pets do not accidentally lick the toxic chemical mixture.

Burning

Besides the methods described above, you can burn the stump out of the ground. This approach works well when combined with the application of chemicals since they make the stump more porous. Before starting the fire, make sure there are no materials that can easily ignite around. You do not want to burn down your neighborhood in the process. It is advisable to build a makeshift stove around the stump and then start the fire.

Removing tree stumps after cutting a tree is not hard. Some of the methods that you can use include hand digging, stump grinding, fire, and chemicals. When using chemicals, warn young children not to play anywhere near the stump to avoid accidental poisoning. The beauty with tree removal in Edmonton techniques is you will end up with a beautiful yard or lawn.