The first step in removing a tree stump is to cut the stump as low as possible. Then, a professional will remove the stump and use a commercially available product such as saltpeter to soften the wood. The saltpeter combines with moisture from the wood and kills it. This is a natural compound that can be found in rocks. It takes about the same amount of time to kill a tree stump as Epsom salt.
Aside from digging, another option for removing a tree stump is burning it. This technique may take longer than digging, but will result in satisfactory results and less physical effort. Before trying this method, make sure to check with your local fire department to see if there are any restrictions or warnings about burning. Once the burnt stump is out, the technician will grind the wood chips into a fine powder. After that, it will be removed by a professional.
When choosing a method, make sure to choose the one that best suits your needs. If the stump is small to medium-sized, you may be able to remove it by hand. However, if the stump is large or you have to dig the stump with a pick-up, a chemical solution will be more suitable. To remove the stump, you will need a mattock that will dig into the soil. A sharp end on the mattock will allow you to slice through the stump.