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Tree stumps can be an eyesore and a nuisance in your yard, but removing them doesn’t have to involve expensive stump grinders or labor-intensive digging. In a recent homesteading video, a creator shared an effective, budget-friendly method for getting rid of tree stumps using simple tools and Epsom salt. Here’s a breakdown of their approach and the key steps to success.
Key Takeaways
- Epsom Salt is Key: Magnesium sulfate accelerates the decay of the stump and kills off the remaining living tissue to prevent regrowth.
- Grooves Make the Difference: Cutting deep grooves into the stump provides more surface area for the Epsom salt to work and retains water, speeding up decomposition.
- No Need for Tarps or Maintenance: Unlike other methods, this approach doesn’t require covering the stump or constant upkeep.
The Two Methods Compared
The creator initially tried two methods for stump removal and highlighted the stark difference in results.
Method 1: Drilling Holes and Adding Epsom Salt
This method involves drilling small holes into the stump, filling them with Epsom salt, and waiting for the stump to decay. While it works over time, it’s not as effective, and stumps often sprout new growth from the roots. In one case, a sweet gum stump treated this way still showed green sprouts and viable roots even after extended treatment.
Method 2: Cutting Grooves and Adding Epsom Salt
This method, which proved far superior, involves cutting the stump as low to the ground as possible, rounding the edges, and creating a deep checkerboard pattern with a chainsaw. The grooves dramatically increase the surface area, allowing the Epsom salt to penetrate deeper and decay the stump more quickly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Stumps
- Trim the Stump Close to the Ground: Use a chainsaw to cut the stump as low as possible without hitting the dirt. Rounded edges make it safer for vehicles and easier to work around.
- Create a Checkerboard Pattern:
Cut deep, intersecting grooves into the stump with your chainsaw. The deeper the grooves, the better the results, as they allow more Epsom salt to reach the interior. - Apply Epsom Salt:
Fill the grooves with Epsom salt. There’s no need to measure—just use enough to fill the cuts completely. The salt will work to dehydrate the stump and accelerate decomposition. - Let Nature Work:
Rainwater will naturally seep into the grooves, dissolving the salt and aiding in the breakdown of the wood. There’s no need to cover the stump or reapply salt.
Why This Method Works
The combination of deep grooves and Epsom salt makes this method incredibly effective. The grooves increase surface area and retain water, keeping the salt in contact with the wood for longer. This approach is simple, inexpensive, and much faster than traditional methods like drilling small holes or covering the stump with a tarp.
This natural stump removal method is perfect for homesteaders, gardeners, or anyone looking for an affordable way to clear stumps from their property. With a little extra work using a chainsaw and some Epsom salt, you can have your yard stump-free in no time.