Tree Stump Killers

Dec 21, 2014 9 Replies

Gentlemen,



Has anyone used one of those chemical (or biological) tree stump dissolving preparations to remove a stubborn, semi-rotten, broken-off fence post stump and if so, how long did it take to work and any brand recommendations, please?



cheers.


In forestry they apply a fungus spore culture to tree stumps to get rid of them. Takes two or three years to work.

Your fence post may well be treated with an arsenic compound so the outer parts won't be affected by fungus. Just use a hammer and chisel/long drill to get it out.

AIUI tree stump killers are just that: killers. They don't actually accelerate rotting, so won't be of much use for treating a fence post stump, as it's already dead! As Harry says, hammer, chisel, drill etc. i.e. hard work!

You can drill some holes and pour potassium nitrate in the holes which should accelerate rotting, and after many months light a fire on it and is should slowly burn from the inside.

Just get down on your knees with a hammer and chisel. It doesn't take that long to chip off enough to get it below ground level.

Mike

I have a huge tree stump just above ground and I am debating with my self whether to do the potassium nitrate bit or setting to it with the angle grinder and a carving disc.

Can you get potassium nitrate these days? I see plenty listed on Ebay, but it's all from either the US or Germany. I suspect the anti-terrorist squad might be interested if you attempted to buy any!

There's also Amazon (Malcolm 4531 sells it for £3.85 a kilo + postage (maybe + tax as well)

John

It is not a particularely nasty chemical(you can make old fashioned gunpowder from it)It is not a favorite of terrorists. It has lots of other common uses,Once called saltpetre.

True, particularly if 'Tree Stump' is the name one of one of their field agents.

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required