How to Remove a Chinese Tallow Stump

Introduced to this country by Benjamin Franklin, the Chinese tallow tree -- known as Sapium sebiferum L. or Triadica sebifera (L.) Small -- adapted quickly to U.S. soil. Although cultivated for shade and for the waxy tallow used to make soap and candles, the tree is now considered an invasive pest in most of the Gulf states and is spreading rapidly throughout the Southeast, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The trees can reproduce even after they're cut down, sending shoots and suckers from the stump.

Sharp spade
Shovel
Axe
Heavy duty rope or towing chain
Come-along or winch
Chain saw
Stump grinder

Instructions

- 1
  Use the shovel and a sharp spade to dig a trench around the Chinese tallow tree stump. Dig the trench at least 1 to 2 feet deep and wide, completely encircling the stump.
- 2
  Use the sharp edge of the spade or the blade of an axe to sever the roots as you dig. Work through the root system until all of the roots around and underneath the stump are cut.
- 3
  Pull the stump out of the ground by hand if the tree was young and small enough to leave a manageable-sized stump.
- 4
  Wrap larger stumps securely with one end of a rope or heavy-duty towing chain, then attach the free end to the winch or come-along. Use the winch or come-along to pull the stump from the ground.
- 5
  Use a stump grinder if the tree is too large to pull out of the ground mechanically. Hire a professional service to grind the stump, or rent a stump grinder and do it yourself if you have experience.
- 6
  Wear safety goggles and hearing protection at all times and stand well away from the grinding wheel during the grinding process. Make sure the rental company provides detailed directions for operating the specific model stump grinder you'll be using.
- 7
  Cut the stump as close to the ground as you can with a chain saw. Then position the grinding wheel over the front edge of the stump and start the grinder. Lower the blade into the stump and move it carefully sideways. Cut to about 4 inches deep, lift the wheel and move it to another part of the stump. Repeat this process until the stump is ground sufficiently.

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