How to burn out a tree stump

Are you looking to get rid of an old and unsightly tree stump in your garden?

Removing a tree stump can be challenging, but one effective and cost-efficient method I’ve used is burning it out. Here’s a guide based on my personal experience to help you properly burn a tree stump.

Before You Get Started

Before you begin burning a stump, ensure you’re doing it legally. It’s crucial to follow all local laws and regulations to avoid any fines or legal issues.

Choose a suitable time of year for burning your stump. Ideally, the stump should be dry, with no rain forecast for a few days. Spring and summer are the best times to ensure the stump is fully dry.

Keep in mind that burning out a stump will only remove the visible top portion, leaving the roots intact.

How to Burn Out a Tree Stump in 7 Steps:

Step 1: Dig Around the Stump

Using a garden spade, dig around the stump to expose more of it. Try to uncover the main roots holding the stump.

Step 2: Drill Several Holes into the Stump Top

Attach a 1-inch spade bit or a wood-boring bit to your power drill and drill holes all over the stump. Make sure to drill into the roots as well, going 8 to 10 inches deep or as far as the bit can reach. Clear the debris from the holes once you’re done.

Step 3: Soak the Stump with Petrol or Methylated Spirits

Pour petrol or methylated spirits into the holes and top up over 48 hours to ensure it fully penetrates the stump.

Step 4: Use a Stump Burning Chimney (Optional but Recommended)

Depending on the size of your stump, you can use a stump burning chimney to contain the fire and prevent damage to the surrounding area. The chimney also helps position the coals needed to burn the stump. You can find good stump burning chimneys on Amazon.

Step 5: Soak the Surrounding Area to Prevent Fire Spread

Before igniting the stump, soak the surrounding area with water to prevent the fire from spreading and causing damage.

Step 6: Ignite the Tree Stump

After soaking the stump with petrol or methylated spirits, place several kilograms of charcoal around it, then pile firewood on top of the charcoal, and light it. Charcoal is effective because its tiny particles can easily fit under the stump, helping the fire reach all areas.

Step 7: Oversee the Stump Until It Burns to Ash

As the stump burns and turns to ash, keep a close eye on it to ensure it stays under control and doesn’t spread or damage the surrounding area. Add more fuel if necessary. Be prepared to extinguish the fire with soil or water if it gets out of control.

Safety First!

Using combustible fuels is dangerous, so always have fire extinguishing materials close by. Never pour flammable liquid onto a lit fire.

Burning a tree stump usually takes between 12 to 24 hours, so plan to stay nearby the entire time.

If your tree stump is too big or too rotten for you to handle, or if you’d rather not risk the burning process, contact Grind My Stump. I’ll be happy to send an expert to quickly and efficiently remove your stump. You can find out more over on Surrey stump grinding page.