How to Treat a Stump

Once a tree is cut down, homeowners must decide what to do with the stump that is left behind. Certain species produce new sprouts, called stump sprouts, from buds at or below ground level that regrow using energy stored in the existing root system. To prevent sprouting and regrowth, you can remove the stump by hand or grind it down. The best way to treat a tree stump is by applying a herbicide. Herbicides move downward through the inner bark of the stump into the root system, killing the entire root system.

Herbicide
Protective clothing
Chain saw
Small paint brush

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase a general use herbicide. Nurseries and garden centers carry a selection of products from different manufacturers. Only purchase the amount of herbicide necessary for the job.
- 2
  Read the product label. Look for an herbicide containing water soluble active ingredients, such as glyphosate or triclopyr amine. Make sure it is intended for cut stump applications.
- 3
  Wear protective clothing when handling herbicides. If you get herbicides on your clothes or skin, remove your clothes and wash exposed skin immediately with soap and water.
- 4
  Follow the product label instructions when mixing and applying herbicides. Failure to do so violates the law.
- 5
  Use a chain saw and cut the stump as close to ground level as possible. Make sure the surface is smooth and even. This helps minimize herbicide runoff.
- 6
  Apply the herbicide to a fresh cut surface. Use a small paint brush and spread the pesticide over the surface of the stump. If the stump is larger than 3 inches in diameter, only treat the outer 2 to 3 inches of the stump.
- 7
  Check the stump for re-growth. Remove new shoots and re-apply herbicide, if necessary.

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