When you cut down the once beautiful trees in your yard, they leave you with the tedious task of removing the stumps – which is not an easy task. And this is where tree stump killers come in handy.
But getting the best tree stump killer can be challenging since some products are very toxic to the human body and the surrounding plants.
If you’re looking for the right product to kill stubborn stumps, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ve reviewed the 5 best stump killers along with a handy guide to help you make the right decision.
Table of Contents
Best Tree Stump Removers/Killers Reviewed
Spectracide HG-66420 Stump Remover
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The Spectracide HG-66420 Stump Remover is specially formulated to eliminate tree stumps. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about your surrounding grass or flowers since it does not affect them. For effective results, you have to drill holes in the stump and fill the holes with the solution. It has a handy nozzle that fills the drilled holes effectively without wastage.
Features
- Granules
- Useful nozzle
- 16 ounces
Pros
- Easy to pour
- Affordable
- Odorless
- Effective and fast results
Cons
- You need to drill holes in the stump
Dow AgroSciences RTU548 Tordon RTU Herbicide QT Size
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This tree stump comes with a unique formula that offers everything to prevent tree stump regrowth. It comes with a perfect combination of 5.4% Pricolam and 20% trichlorophenoxyacetic acid that is strong to kill any tree stump in a short time. This formula is so effective and can be used on more than 20 tree species. Although it comes in a 32-ounce bottle, it’s capable of eliminating even the sturdiest tree stumps.
Features
- 32-ounces
- Dense formula
Pros
- Effective and easy to use
- Works well in any tree stump
- A single bottle can last for months
- It has a highly dense formula
Cons
- Hard to apply
Bonide 274 728639280241 Vine & Stump Killer
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The Bonide 274 728639280241 Vine & Stump Killer is formulated to kill tree stumps while being gentle enough not to harm any desirable plant in the surrounding. It comes with an attached brush-top that makes the product easy to apply and trickles down to the stump’s roots, killing it from the inside out. For effective results, use this product on freshly cut stumps.
Features
- Attached brush-top
- 8 ounces
Pros
- Affordable than other competitors
- Easy to apply
- Easy to store
- It prevents regrowth and sprouts
Cons
- Not ideal for large stumps
VPG Fertilome 32295 32Oz Brush Stump Killer
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This effective stump killer comes in a 32-ounce bottle, making it an ideal choice for getting rid of several stumps or invasive species. The VPG Fertilome 32295 takes one to six weeks to start showing results. However, you might need to reapply the product now and then for effective results. To effectively use this stump killer, all you need to do is brush it on the stump or spray it with a backpack sprayer.
Features
- 32 ounces
- Strong formulation
Pros
- Ideal for long-term use
- Effective results
- Very easy to brush
- Easy to use
Cons
- It might not be ideal for all types of stumps
- A bit hard to apply
Stump Killer Ready-to-Use Qt
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If you really want to eliminate a stubborn tree stump, the Stump Killer Ready-to-Use Qt is a great product to choose. This is because the chemical is specially formulated to kill tree stumps down to the roots. When used properly, this product can prevent stumps from regrowing and can trigger the rotting process.
Features
- 32 ounces
- Squirt nozzle
Pros
- It comes in an impressive bottle
- Quick results
- Easy to apply
- It prevents stumps from regrowing
Cons
- It might kill plants or grass in the surrounding
How Long does it Take for tree Stumps to Decompose?
After cutting down a tree, some people wait until the tree stump decomposes. However, this may not be a practical idea, especially if you have plans for the area the stumps are located. You should remember that, depending on the type of tree, you may notice regrowth. So, instead of disappearing, the tree stump may take you back to square one. Obviously, this is something you don’t want, so it’s advisable to use a product that prevents regrowth.
Also, tree stumps can take a considerable amount of time to decompose. Therefore, if you want to enhance the safety of your kids, keep your yard in shape, or plant something else, you need to eliminate the stump. However, you should use the right products to eliminate tree stumps efficiently and swiftly.
Benefits of Using Tree Stump Killers
Most homeowners are turning to tree stump killers to restore the shape of their gardens. Here are some of the benefits of using tree stump killers.
Safety
Stump killers restore the safety of active kids and pets. Since stump killers function by inhibiting sapling growth, using stump killers is crucial in eliminating tripping hazards in the future.
Inhibits Regrowth
As mentioned previously, the main function of stump killers is to prevent saplings sprouting and regrowth. When leaves start growing on the stump, it becomes challenging to remove the whole stump and roots. Therefore, a chemical that can kill the stump entirely will help in inhibiting regrowth.
Related: How to Hollow Out a Tree Stump
Protection against Pests and Insects
Tree stumps are favorite spot for various pests and insects like bugs, cockroaches, and termites since they like moist and damp areas. Keeping these pests and insects can make your home prone to infestation. These creatures are also associated with sanitary issues and harmful diseases that are not noticed easily.
FAQs
How Much Time Does a Stump Killer Take to Work?
If you use a dense stump killer that’s not diluted, expect the process to take two weeks for the tree to die completely. But will less diluted and effective formulas, the process can take six weeks or longer. However, the sturdiness of the tree species and environmental factors also have an impact.
If you’re looking for a much faster solution consider using a stump grinder to grind the tree stump. Burning the tree stump is also a much faster solution.
Are Stump Killers Dangerous?
Yes, the chemical formulations of most stump killers are considered toxic. However, this is dependent on its contact with people and density. Direct skin contact may not cause harm if cleaned immediately. Consistent contact or consumption can lead to complications like stomach, breathing, and skin issues.
Can I Use Bleach to Kill a Tree Stump?
Absolutely! If stump killers don’t work for you, you can use bleach to eliminate a tree stump. Other methods include kerosene, chlorine, and Epsom salts.
How Do You Use Tree Stump Killer?
Some stump killers can be applied on top of the stump and begin to work immediately. Other chemicals show results when you drill holes into the tree stump and fill them with the stump killer.
What is a tree stump killer?
A tree stump killer is a chemical or substance used to eliminate tree stumps after a tree has been cut down or removed. When a tree is cut down, the remaining stump can be an eyesore, a potential trip hazard, and may also promote new growth from the roots.
Tree stump killers accelerate the natural decomposition process of the stump or by directly killing the living tissue within the stump, preventing it from sprouting new growth.
Stump Killer Buying Guide
If you’re looking for the right tree stump killer for your needs, there are some crucial factors you should consider to get the right product. Here are some of the main factors to consider:
Tree Stump Location
It’s crucial to consider the location of the tree stump you want to kill. These chemicals are so powerful and can damage desirable vegetation in the surrounding. Although some are flower and grass-safe, it’s advisable to apply the solution carefully around wanted plants.
Time
When making a purchasing decision, time is an important factor. You need to have a timeframe of when you want to kill the stump completely to know how many stump killers you need. You should buy a specially formulated product for tree stumps since it can save you some time. However, large tree stumps can take months to kill using stump killers, but smaller ones can take three to four weeks.
Safety
Before making a purchase, you should carefully read the manuals attached to the product to be certain of what kind of chemical you have. You should always wear protective gear any time you deal with the chemical. Always keep the stump killer away from pets and children. Additionally, choose a product that will not affect other pants surrounding the stump.
Maintenance
Always go for a stump killer that can work well and show effects in the shortest time possible. It must be a solution that’s easy to store after use and can be used later without losing its potential.
Quantity and Coverage
You should look at the quantity of the bottle before making a purchase. This will help you determine the number of tree stumps you can kill per bottle. Some formulas require dilution, while others are easy and safe to pour at once without dilution. Generally, choose a chemical that can cover over 1000 square feet per bottle.
Method of Application
Before buying a product, check how it’s going to be applied. Some bottles are just for pouring, while others have special applicators that allow effective application. For instance, some have a brush-top applicator. Others come with sprayers, while some are just pour-over bottles. This is dependent on your preference.
Conclusion
Tree stumps can destroy the beautiful look of your yard since they occupy valuable space and are difficult to remove.
Fortunately, the best tree stump killers reviewed above will make your stump removal process easier. Pick one that suits your situation and restore beauty in your garden!
