You might be considering cutting down an old tree for several reasons. It could be dying, shedding, blocking a wonderful view, or getting tangled in wires. If you have just cut down a tree, you might think that the hard work is over. However, once the tree is cut down, the stump will continue to sprout new growth. So, what is the best way to keep a tree stump from sprouting?
These are some of the most common and effective methods that can be used in order to keep a tree stump from sprouting once the tree has been cut down.
- Use a stump killing herbicide to stunt any new growth
- Drill holes in the stump and fill the holes with Epsom salt and water to kill the roots
- Rent a professional stump grinder machine in order to remove the stump
- Burn the tree stump to kill it and stop any new growth from sprouting up
- Hire a professional to take care of the problem for you
In this article, I will show you the best ways to keep a tree stump from sprouting. By using at-home remedies, herbicide sprays, and other methods, you can easily prevent a tree stump from sprouting.
Contents
Different Ways To Keep A Tree Stump From Sprouting
Which method you choose to keep a stump from sprouting will depend on what tools or products you have available. Whichever method you choose, these are some of the most common ways to keep a stump from sprouting that are proven to work.
Use A Stump Killing Chemical
What you will need
- Spray bottle
- Herbicide
- Paintbrush
- Safety glasses
- gloves
Step 1: Start by putting on your safety glasses, gloves, and whatever other protective equipment might be suitable. A long-sleeved shirt and long pants are also recommended. Herbicidal sprays contain harsh chemicals. Be sure to avoid contact with skin and eyes.
Step 2: Read the manufacturer’s instructions on your herbicidal spray very carefully. Some products may come ready-to-use, while others may require diluting with water before use. If your herbicide requires mixing, use an empty spray bottle and add the necessary amount of herbicide and water. Spray all around and on top of the stump wherever there is new growth. Use a paintbrush to spread the herbicide around evenly.
Step 3: Let the herbicide dry on the stump for several hours. In some cases, one round of herbicide will not be enough to completely kill the stump and stop new growth from sprouting. Repeat the process several times if necessary until new growth has stopped.
Drill Holes In The Stump And Use Salt To Kill It
What you will need:
- Power drill
- Safety glasses
- Long drill bit
- Epsom salt
- Water
- Tarp
Step 1: Gather up all of your tools and materials. Put on your safety glasses and put your drill bit into your power drill. You will need a fairly long and wide drill bit in order to drill down into the stump. Drill 5 to 10 holes (depending on stump size) in the top surface of the stump, drilling directly down.
Step 2: After you have drilled the holes into the stump, pour a liberal amount of Epsom salt on to the top of the stump, making sure to push the excess salt down into the holes that you have just drilled. Once the salt is spread out nicely and you have filled all of the drilled holes, pour a small amount of water on top of the stump. Think of it as if you were watering a plant. You do not want to use too much water and rinse all of the salt away, you only want to saturate it.
Step 3: Once you have successfully drilled the holes, added the salt and water to the stump, you will then want to cover it with a tarp or other form of plastic. Use rocks or other heavy objects to hold down the corners of the tarp. This will help to keep rain and moisture out. Let sit for several days.
Use A Stump Grinder
What you will need:
- Stump grinder
- Shovel
- Protective equipment
Step 1: First you will want to use a shovel to remove any excess material from around the stump, as well as to level out the ground as much as possible. This will make for an easier experience with the stump grinder.
Step 2: Put on your protective equipment, and place the stump grinder directly in front of the stump. It is important to get your grinder set up where you want it before turning the machine on. Also, be sure to read any operating manuals before using a stump grinder.
Step 3: Once the machine is on, maneuver the grinding blade down onto the stump slowly. The stump will slowly start to grind down. Keep in mind, the further down you grind the stump, you will need to readjust the handle on the machine. Be sure to turn off the power when making adjustments. Once the stump is ground all the way down, fill the hole with fill dirt to keep anything else from growing in its place.
Burn The Stump
What you will need:
- Lighter
- Small cut firewood
- Shovel
- Rake
- Power drill/drill bit
- Lighter fluid
- Water
Step 1: Use a shovel and rake to remove any debris and dead plant material away from the tree stump in order to keep the flames from spreading. It is also a good idea to dig a small ditch around the entire tree stump as an extra fire precaution.
Step 2: Drill several holes into the stump and fill with lighter fluid, kerosene, or other flammable material. Safely ignite using a lighter. Once the tree trunk is on fire, you will need to continue to add small amounts of firewood to the fire to keep it burning all the way down. It may take up to 24 hours to completely burn the stump all the way down, so be sure to have plenty of firewood handy to keep it going continuously.
Step 3: Once the stump is burned all the way down, use water to douse the embers until the stump and ground around it are completely cool. Break up the ashes with your shovel and fill the hole with dirt when finished.
Hire A Professional
Maybe You’ve tried everything and not had any luck. Or perhaps if you simply don’t have the time available to take on such a job, you may want to think about hiring someone to take care of the problem for you. Although hiring a professional is more expensive, you will save yourself a fair amount of time and effort, and you will also be sure to get the problem taken care of for good.
Next time you cut down a tree and do not want it to sprout new growth, keep these methods in mind, and don’t be afraid to try more than one way if the first method doesn’t work.
What tools and materials will I need to keep a tree stump from sprouting?
Depending on which method you are using to stop your tree stump from sprouting, There are a handful of tools that you will need to get the job done efficiently.
Shovel: A shovel will come in handy for removing dirt and debris around your tree stump, as well as for leveling out the ground around your work area.
Spray Bottle: You will need a spray bottle if you are using an herbicide spray to keep new sprouts from popping up.
Power Drill/Long Drill Bit: For both the Epsom salt method and the stump burning method, you will need to drill long holes directly into the top of the tree stump. A power drill and a long drill bit are necessary for this step.
Safety Equipment: Safety glasses, gloves, long-sleeved clothing are all important to keep you safe while working on a tree stump. If using a stump grinder, you will also want hearing protection.
Paint Brush: You may want to use a paintbrush to spread the herbicide around the tree stump.
Epsom Salt: If you are using the salt method to stop your stump from sprouting, You will need a large bag of Epsom salt.
Stump Grinder: If you decide to use a stump grinder, you will need to buy, rent, or borrow one to use.
Will using a herbicide spray kill my grass/other plants?
Using an herbicidal spray or stump killing spray is an easy and effective way to stop a tree stump from sprouting. There are many different chemicals available, and some are harsher than others. However; if used properly, most herbicides will not harm your surrounding plants and grass.
Herbicides are easy: The easiest and probably the first thing most people will try in order to keep a stump from sprouting is simply to spray it. Why not try the easiest route first?
If used properly, surrounding vegetation will not be impacted: Although some herbicides contain chemicals that will kill grass and other plants, if you follow the instructions closely and use the product ONLY on the selected stump area, it should not affect your surrounding vegetation.
There are plenty of products available: If you’re worried about killing your grass because of an herbicidal spray, you’re not completely out of options. There are a large number of products to choose from, and many are designed specifically to target the tree stump and not harm grass and other plants.
FAQ about keeping a tree stump from sprouting
Keeping a tree stump from sprouting is an issue that most people don’t think about regularly. It’s only once they have cut down a tree, only to realize that the tree isn’t ready to die yet. Once they realize there is still more work to be done, that’s when the questions arise. Here are some common questions that are asked about keeping a tree stump from sprouting.
I cut down a tree and I thought it was dead. Why is it sprouting new growth? Just because a tree has been cut down, does not necessarily mean it is dead. The stump and root system may still be alive, and new growth will continue unless you take the proper steps to stop it.
What’s the easiest way to stop a tree stump from sprouting? The easiest way to stop a tree stump from sprouting is to spray the stump with an herbicidal spray or “stump killing” spray. There are many products out there, and you may need to try more than one to get results. If you’re still not having any luck after trying several different sprays, it’s time to move on to the next option.
If I’m using the salt method to stop a stump from sprouting, how much salt will I need? In most cases, a 5 lb. bag of Epsom salt should be plenty. You will just need enough salt to fill up the holes that you have drilled, as well as spread an even layer of salt on top of the entire stump.
Can I just pour gasoline on the stump and burn it? I wouldn’t try it. Gasoline is dangerously flammable and burns hotter than other flammable liquids. You also need to keep a continuous fire going on the stump for several hours. Simply pouring flammable liquid on it and doing a “quick burn” will not kill the stump and keep it from sprouting again.
I’ve tried all the DIY methods to try and keep my tree stump from sprouting, but nothing has worked. What do I do now? If you’ve tried all of the easier methods to stop new growth from sprouting, It’s time to either use a stump grinder or hire a professional. Either option is effective, but keep in mind, using a stump grinder takes time and a lot of work. On the other hand, hiring a professional can get spendy. The choice is up to you!
Wrap Up
If you have recently cut down a tree, or if you have an old stump in your yard that won’t stop sprouting, study your options and choose one that is right for you. Start off with the simpler methods, and work your way up to the others if you don’t see results. Don’t get frustrated if the first thing you try doesn’t work right away. A sprouting tree stump can be an unsightly and tangled mess, so taking care of the issue can be quite rewarding. Give it your best shot, and if all else fails, hire someone else who has the tools and experience to get it done for you.