If you’ve ever removed a tree from your property, you’re probably aware that the stump left behind can often be the hardest part to get rid of. As experts in the landscaping business, we’ve removed our fair share of tree stumps. We thought we’d take today to share the four most common methods.

Digging Out the Stump. Probably the most labour intensive way to remove your stump, digging it out will probably take a decent chunk of time. On the plus side, it doesn’t require any special equipment or safety precautions. Just a shovel to dig around the perimetre of the stump, an ax to chop up roots, and a hoe to pull the roots out of the ground.

Grind it to Little Bits. A stump grinder is a pretty handy machine, and the name is very self explanatory. If you don’t own a stump grinder, you’ll have to rent one, and if you aren’t familiar or confidant with operating one, you should probably also hire an expert to help you out. Between the rental and the professional, using a stump grinder can become one of the more expensive ways to be rid of a stump. However, it’s a fairly efficient method and chews up the stump and roots a foot into the ground. Then you just shovel out the wood, add a little dirt, and done.

Kill it with Fire. If heavy manual labor and renting a stump grinder don’t particularly interest you, you may want to buy a bag of marshmallows and some hotdogs. Be sure to check with the fire department in your area first; then get ready for several hours of babysitting your fire. You’ll want to set up thinner pieces of wood and kindling surrounding the stump so that it is always in the middle of the blaze. Once the fire is going strong, remember to keep a good supply of wood near by so you can keep it going.

Bring on the Rot. This final method is best reserved for the Calgary homeowner without pets or kids. You’ll be applying strong chemicals to the stump to make it rot faster, but it will still take several weeks. If ingested, these chemicals can make your kid or pet very ill. For this method, you’ll buy a chemical stump remover and drill large holes into your stump. Pour the chemical into each hole and let nature take its course. When the stump has rotted, chop it up into bits. You’ll want to remove what you can and burn the rest. Dispose of the ashes, fill the hole with dirt, and you’re done.

As you can see, there are several different ways to be rid of your stump. Each method has it’s drawbacks, but we’re sure you’ll pick the one that works best for you. Of course, your fifth option is to call the professionals at Five Star Landscaping. We’ll answer any question you have and would be happy to help remove your stump. Call us today at 403-203-4058.