Nature always finds its way, but sometimes it is necessary to cut down a tree. And that can take an afternoon or a real headache. And it is that cutting it is not something difficult (you only need strength and a good axe) but… what about the stump that remains stuck in the ground? A real headache, there you cannot pretend nothing happens because it ends up being an obstacle forever. Normally, we call professionals who come with giant machinery or use chemicals to remove it, and that can take chemicals… and money (a lot). And in the case of chemicals they leave the soil quite damaged, so it is not the best option. Not as much, at least, as the one we bring you today: removing the stump by hand! With tools, yes, and patience. We tell you.
Why do it by hand
Basically because you do not have to spend money or rent expensive machinery… And you will protect the soil, which using chemicals does not take care of at all.
In addition it is a fairly easy process, you only need a shovel, an axe or saw, a rake, some pruners and, if the stump is large, a strong rope. It is more physical work, yes, but it is also cheaper and leaves you with the satisfaction of having solved it yourself.
The problem with chemicals
Chemicals can accelerate decomposition and it seems easier, but they contaminate the soil, and if you want to cultivate again in that soil it is a problem (in addition to the fact that you can affect the surrounding plants). With manual extraction you avoid that damage and leave the land clean for whatever comes next, whether it is grass, a garden or a new plantation!
Step by step to remove a stump
Before starting, protect yourself. Steel-toed boots and resistant gloves are basic and indispensable. This way you avoid cuts with the roots or hits with the tools. Once ready, you need: shovel, axe or handsaw, rake, pruners and rope.
With the shovel open a trench around the stump. As the roots appear, cut them with the axe or the saw. The smaller ones can be quickly removed with the pruners.
The rake will help you clear the soil and keep the work area clean. Dig, cut, clean. Little by little, the stump’s grip on the ground weakens and starts to give in.
If it is small, you can pull it out with a strong push. If it is large, you may need help and a rope to finish removing it. Once out, fill the hole with soil and, if you can, add some organic matter to return nutrients to the soil.
What to do with the stump afterward
You can take it to a green waste point, but also give it a second life in the garden. Some turn it into a rustic planter, others into an improvised bench or even into a small outdoor table, let your imagination run!
Maybe you had never thought about being able to remove a stump from the ground without chemicals or machinery, but now that you have “the recipe” you already know how to do it while also being respectful with the soil!