This is a common question among most homeowners who want to get rid of the stump portion of a tree…
Although we love the beautiful scenery created by trees in our backyards, occasionally, we cut down trees that have died or met an accident.
When you’ve cut down a tree, you’re left with a tree stump, and you’ll probably wonder about the best method to eliminate it.
In this post, I’ll guide you on how to burn a stump with kerosene or charcoal, or diesel.
Instead of calling professionals or using methods that will either break your wallet or your back, adopt some safe and hassle-free methods.
Burning a tree stump is one of the safest methods you can use. Here is everything you need to know about burning a tree stump.
General Safety Tips
Always check the fire regulations in your area to determine if there are regulations prohibiting burning stumps in your backyard.
Since you’ll be operating with fire in this process, ensure you adhere to all safety requirements. Remove any flammable material from around the stump and clear all dry sticks and leaves on the surrounding surface.
Keep a bucket of water or a water hose nearby and back it up by having a fire extinguisher in case of an emergency. Constructing a rock barrier is one of the safest ways to contain fire.
How to Burn a Stump with Kerosene
Stump burning is the process of burning or charring the stump portion of a tree or shrub, usually to kill the roots or to clear an area for future use.
Some people use stump burning as a way to remove an unsightly tree stump, while others burn stumps as part of a lawn care service to clear the way for new plants or a new lawn.
Steps to Burn a Tree Stump with Kerosene
- Dig around the tree stump using a shovel as deep as possible. If possible, expose large roots that hold the stump firmly.
- Drill holes on top of the stump and into the roots. Push the drill as deep as it can go.
- Check your calendar and the weather forecast. Ensure that the timing is right to set fires. It is advisable to build fires during the summer season.
- Soak with Kerosene. Pour kerosene into the holes for at least two days until you’re sure that fuel has penetrated deep enough.
- Burn the stump. Put firewood on top and set it all on fire. The more firewood you use, the better. As the stump burns, don’t leave the area in case the fire gets out of control and avoid burning in windy weather. Depending on the weather condition and the stump’s size, you may need to repeat the process frequently if the burning is slow.
- When the stump is completely burnt out, dig out and remove the ashes.
How to Burn a Stump with Charcoal
There are several ways you can use to remove a tree stump, and surprisingly, using charcoal is among them. However, before you start the process, there are some crucial things you’ll require. Here are some of them.
Tools You Need to Remove a Stump Using Charcoal
- Face mask
- Gloves
- Goggles
- Fire extinguisher
- Rocks
- Power drill
- Vegetable oil
- A bag of charcoal
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Eliminate a Stump Using Charcoal
- Dig around the stump. Use a shovel and dig as deep as you can to expose the stump as much as possible.
- Drill holes. Using a power drill, drill several holes on the tree stump as well as on the sides.
- Pour in vegetable oil. Pour some vegetable oil into the holes and all over the tree stump and ensure that it gets to the exposed roots. Leave it overnight to ensure that it gets soaked completely into the stump. Repeat the process the following day.
- Place the charcoal. Place the charcoal on top of the stump and add extra charcoal to the exposed roots.
- Light the heap. Finally, light up the charcoal heap and clear any flammable object that might be in the way. Repeat this process for at least 3 days until the stump is completely burnt.
How to Burn a Tree Stump Using Diesel
Apart from burning your tree stump with charcoal, there are other tried-and-true methods to eliminate an irritating stump. One of these is using diesel fuel. Here’s how to burn a stump with diesel.
Steps to Burn a Tree Stump with Diesel
- Use a chainsaw to cut the stump as far as you can.
- Using the right angle, drill holes of about 12-inches on top of the stump.
- Use a chemical accelerant, like potassium nitrate, and pour it in the holes. Add boiling water to dissolve the substance.
- Leave the stump for two weeks so that it can soften and rot.
- Pour fuel on the stump and leave it to soak for a few days.
- Construct a rock wall or dig a hole around the stump and clear any flammable object.
- Light up the stump and leave it to burn.
- The diesel fuel will keep the fire on for some days. Keep spraying the ground to prevent the fire from spreading to other parts.
Conclusion
While getting rid of a tree stump may be challenging, the best way is to deal with it and remember you have better options. Stumps are not only a threat, but they are habitats to many pests.
If you want to eliminate a tree stump by burning it out, the above steps will get it done in good time.
