Joe Marra Tree Service

Stump Out: A Guide to Effortless Stump Removal!

Using Bonide Stump Out: A Step-by-Step Guide

An unsightly stump in your yard can be a real eyesore. Not only does it detract from your landscaping, but it can also hinder mowing and be a tripping hazard. But fear not, there’s a solution! Bonide Stump Out is a popular product designed to accelerate the natural decomposition process of tree stumps, making them easier to remove.

This blog post will be your one-stop guide to stump out, covering everything you need to know. So, enjoy your read!

Understanding Stumps and Decomposition

Tree stump descomposing

But why would we need to use products to remove the stump? Before diving into stump out, it’s helpful to understand the natural process of stump decomposition.

When a tree is cut down, the remaining stump is essentially deadwood. This wood slowly decomposes over time through the action of fungi and bacteria. However, this process can take a lot of work, and it can take years for a large stump to fully break down.

Factors That Influence the Decomposition Rate

  1. Wood Type: Hardwood stumps generally decompose slower than softwood stumps.
  2. Stump Size: Larger stumps take longer to decompose than smaller ones.
  3. Moisture Levels: Adequate moisture is essential for the microorganisms that break down wood.
  4. Soil Conditions: Well-aerated soil promotes faster decomposition.

What is Bonide Stump Out?

Bonide Stump Out is a commercially available granular product designed to accelerate the decomposition of tree stumps. It is the easiest solution for DIY stump removal.

Here are some critical points about Bonide Stump Out:

  • Active Ingredient: Sodium metabisulfite
  • Application Method: Drilled into the stump
  • Effectiveness: Works best on seasoned stumps (12-18 months old)}
  • Decomposition time: 4-6 weeks after application

How Does Bonide Stump Out Work?

Sodium metabisulfite, the active ingredient in Bonide Stump Out, works by:

  • Disrupting the wood cell structure: This allows for better penetration of moisture and decomposition organisms.
  • Drying out the stump: A drier stump is more susceptible to breakdown by fungi and bacteria.
  • Reducing the pH level: A slightly acidic environment promotes the growth of fungi that aid in decomposition.

It’s important to note that Bonide Stump Out doesn’t directly kill the stump. Instead, it accelerates the natural decomposition process, making the stump softer and more accessible to remove by grinding, or pulling out with machinery.

Using Bonide Stump Out: A Step-by-Step Guide

A man is drilling a tree stump before applying Bonide stump out

Ready to tackle that stubborn stump? Here’s a step-by-step guide on using Bonide Stump Out:

Gather your tools:

You’ll need a drill, a drill bit suitable for wood (wider than the granules), a protective face mask, gloves, safety glasses, and a container to hold the granules.

Prepare the stump:

Clear away any dirt or debris around the base of the stump. The stump should be seasoned for at least 12-18 months for best results.

Drill holes:

Following the product instructions, drill several holes into the top of the stump, angled slightly downward. The number of holes will depend on the size of the stump.

Apply Bonide Stump Out:

Carefully pour the granules into each drilled hole.

Fill the holes with water:

This helps activate the product and distribute it throughout the stump.

Wait:

Allow 4-6 weeks for Bonide Stump Out to work its magic.

Pros and Cons of Bonide Stump Out

Pros:

  • Easy to use – No grinding, digging, or chopping required.
  • Relatively inexpensive compared to professional stump removal services.
  • Safe for surrounding plants and soil when used as directed.
  • Effective on a variety of tree stumps (once seasoned).

Cons:

  • It is not effective on fresh stumps. It requires waiting at least a year after the tree is cut down.
  • It is slower than mechanical removal methods like grinding.
  • It may require follow-up applications for larger or stubborn stumps.

Disappear That Ugly Tree Stump In a Flash!

Alright, so now that you have a good understanding of how this process works, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of doing so. But, remember that Bonide stump out is a chemical, and using it can be harmful if done improperly. So, please do not tackle DIY before reading carefully the label instructions and wearing your protective equipment.

At Joe Marra Tree Service, we are a tree company with 20+ years of experience. We can help you with professional tree stump removal. Our experts use the latest tools and techniques. So, contact our skilled tree stump removers to make the stump disappear safely and quickly and ensure that it will not regrow!

Table of Contents
    Add a header to begin generating the table of contents