How Do You Kill a Tree Stump? 5 Proven DIY Methods

You cut down a tree, but the stump keeps sending up new shoots. Now you’re wondering how to kill a tree stump for good. Whether you’re trying to stop an invasive tree from growing back, prepare an area for landscaping, or simply get rid of an eyesore, there are several effective methods. In this guide, we’ll compare five ways to kill a tree stump—from natural solutions like covering the stump and using Epsom salts to faster options like stump grinding and commercial herbicides—so you can choose the best method for your yard.

What’s the Best Way to Kill a Tree Stump? 

If you need the fastest solution, grind the stump or use a commercial herbicide. If you prefer a natural method and don’t mind waiting several months, covering the stump or using Epsom salts can eventually stop new growth.

Before You Begin: Always identify the tree species before treating the stump. Some species spread through underground roots, and improper removal can encourage additional suckers. If the tree is near utility lines, a septic system, or your home’s foundation, consider consulting an arborist before grinding or excavating the stump.

How to Kill a Tree Stump: 5 Proven Methods

1. How to Kill a Tree Stump with Epsom Salt

Look online, and you won’t get far before reading about killing stumps with Epsom salts. They dry out the tree, basically killing it by dehydration. It’s a low-key and safe way to try, although it may take a while. 

Equipment needed: Epsom salts, drill and drill bit, and tarp.

Process: Drill holes (lots of holes) all over the top of the stump. Ideally, the holes should be an inch wide and 10 inches deep. For an 8-inch stump, try for at least six holes, and drilling more is better. Fill the holes with Epsom salts and water, then tarp the stump to prevent rain from washing it away.

Pros and Cons: Using Epsom salts is fairly safe and inexpensive. However, the method isn’t always effective and can take a while. Learn more about using Epsom salt in the garden.

2. How to Kill a Tree Stump Naturally by Blocking Sunlight

To kill any plant, we can deprive it of light. Just ask the very annoyed sage I left in the garage by accident. The same idea works for a tree stump. Once it has been turned into a stump, it must send up new growth and a fresh set of leaves on that growth to keep making food out of sunlight. While there is energy stored in the roots, it will eventually run out. Keep the new growth from getting light, and the tree stump will die of starvation.

Equipment needed: A heavy-duty tarp, rope, stakes.

Process: Wrap the tarp over the stump, folding it over if needed to ensure absolutely no light can get through. Cover the stump top, sides, and about 6 inches out from the base, then tie the tarp around the stump and stake down the sides. 

Pros and Cons: This method is natural, safe, and effective. However, it will create an eyesore in your yard, and it will take a few months to kill the stump. 

3. Can Vinegar Kill a Tree Stump?

Why do you want your yard to smell like pickles? Just kidding. Vinegar contains acetic acid, which is a contact herbicide. It must be applied to live plant tissue, like the leaves and tender stems of stump sprouts. 

Household white vinegar is about 5% acetic acid. It works as an herbicide, but not a strong one. Purchase stronger horticultural vinegar in the 20–30% range to kill tree stumps. It’s more effective and faster, but be sure to wear your protective gear. For added measure, drill holes in the stump and fill those with vinegar as well. 

Equipment needed: Vinegar, spray bottle, protective gear, and drill and bit (optional).

Process: Spray vinegar over all surfaces of sprouts. Repeat as necessary until they stop coming up. For added measure, some people drill holes in the stump and fill those with vinegar as well.

Pros and Cons: Killing a stump with vinegar is inexpensive, but higher strengths of vinegar are still dangerous. Like other herbicidal treatments, nearby plants can be harmed. Learn more about the many uses of vinegar.

4. Remove a Tree Stump with a Stump Grinder

Hiring a contractor or renting the equipment to grind a stump is an effective and fast way to kill it and get it out of the way. While it is expensive, you’ll have results right away. The stump and root collar are removed, leaving only the fine roots in the soil. 

Equipment needed: Stump grinder, safety gear, a vehicle capable of towing a rented machine.

Process: Follow the instructions provided with the machine and grind away all portions of the stump and large roots.

Pros and Cons: It is quick and effective, it removes the question of how to kill the stubborn tree stump, and there are no harsh chemicals, but it is expensive and noisy. The equipment may not be able to access all portions of your yard.

5. Kill a Tree Stump with Commercial Herbicide

A live stump is just a stubborn plant, and herbicides were designed to kill plants. While any broadleaf herbicide will be effective, some are specifically meant for stumps and trees. Wear proper safety gear, follow the label, and follow the label (I’ll say it again, follow all directions on the label). Be cautious of nearby vegetation you don’t want to kill.

Equipment needed: Herbicide, safety gear.

Process: Apply the herbicide according to the directions on the label. Usually, the stump needs to be fresh. The herbicide can also be applied to the stump sprouts’ foliage. The stump may need several applications.

Pros and Cons: This method is quick and inexpensive, but it leaves the stump to be dealt with. Harsh chemicals can damage nearby plants and are toxic to people and pets. 

Which Is the Best Method for Your Garden?

When figuring out how to kill a tree stump and choosing which method to use, you’ll have to consider—in the order most important to you—your budget, whether you need the physical stump removed or just killed, how fast you need the job done, and your ability level.

Small stumps can be dug by hand in an hour or less. A stump in your perennial garden bed isn’t in a good place to bring a large grinder or herbicide. Generally, the more natural or less invasive methods are slower, but they may offer the right choice if other plants you intend to keep are nearby. 

FAQs

What time of year is best for killing tree stumps?

For methods that require the tree to take up a chemical and kill it, spring and summer are the best times to kill the stump. This is the time when the tree is most actively trying to grow versus the dormant winter when we generally prune trees.

Mechanical methods like digging or grinding can be done any time of year if the ground isn’t frozen.

How long does it take to kill a tree stump?

Depending on the method, a tree stump can be killed in a day, or it might take several months. Take your timeline into account when choosing a method—do you need it dead and gone right now?

How can I make a tree stump rot faster?

1. Add high-nitrogen fertilizer. Just like in our compost piles, nitrogen feeds the microbes. These are bacteria and fungi that work to decompose the stump. Look for ammonium sulfate or ammonium nitrate.
2. Drill holes in the stump’s surface and fill the holes with fertilizer.
3. Reapply as it dissolves.
4. Cover it with some compost to keep it moist. Introduce additional microbes.

Which Tree Stump Removal Method Is Right for You?

• Need the stump gone today? Rent a stump grinder or hire a professional.
• Want the easiest natural solution? Cover the stump to block sunlight.
• Trying to avoid chemicals? Use Epsom salts or repeated cutting of new sprouts.
• Need fast results without digging? Apply a commercial stump herbicide according to the label.