My father has several stumps throughout his yard.
Is there anything I can do to make them rot quickly?
I don't want to rent a stump grinder, nor do I want to
try and dig them up. Any help out there?

Thanks,

Bret

Reply to post by Bret, on February 29, 2000 at 22:34:56:

There are not many ways to get rid of stumps quickly, except mechanical removal. Stump grinders are the most efficient way.

Most of the products on the market do not speed up the process, in my opinion. Let nature take its course, with a little help. Fungi are the primary mechanisms of wood decay. Since they are living organisms, they have certain requirements, so providing the right environment will speed things a little bit. Cut the stumps as low as possible. Sprinkle a small amount of nitrogen fertilizer over and around the stumps. Then wet the area. Cover the stumps with several inches of soil or wood mulch, to hold the moisture, and water occasionally to keep the process going, especially during dry periods (like watering the lawn).

After several years, depending on the size of the stumps, you should be able to break up and dig the remaining parts, at least enough to level it.

If you do decide to use a grinder, be extremely careful! They are dangerous, especially the smaller ones. Consider hiring an arborist trained in using them. It may not cost as much as you think.

Reply to post by Russ Carlson, on February 29, 2000 at 22:34:56:

Mushrooms brings up a good point. You may see mushrooms in the lawn from the rotting stump and roots. That is what it is. You have not mentioned what type of tree. If it is a populus (Poplar species), elm, maple or some decidious tree, you might see suckers sprouting. These are hard to control. I have used Round-up with some success for the suckers but the chemical will also kill the grass. I have not had luck with the mushrooms and often ask people to accept the inconvenience. I have seen people try a number of chemical means for stump removal and I am not impressed. If access allows, I highly recommend using a stump grinder. I agree with Russ and suggest hiring a professional. Ask if they clean up or you need to. If they do clean up hold them to it. Some contractors are sloppy with clean up. I clean out the stump grindings out to about 6-8 inches and bring in good soil and seed or sod the area. It is a good idea to tamp the grindings and soil to ease the settling.