Last updated on October 23rd, 2023 at 08:55 pm
It takes many years for a tree stump to decompose. However, there are a few ways to spend tree stump and tree root to decompose a little faster. With these means you will ensure that the tree stump will decompose faster.
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Make tree stump decompose faster.
A good amateur gardener will spend the time it takes for a tree stump to decompose on its own, although it may take many years. However, it is also possible to arrange for faster decomposition.
To do this, you will need some materials and tools:
- Chainsaw
- Wood drill
- Compost
- Compost starter
- Calcium cyanamide (Wurzel-Ex)
If used correctly, the tree stump will often have decomposed to the point where you can more easily remove it from the ground after just one year.
Working on the tree stump with the chain saw
The chainsaw is needed to make small cuts in the tree root or trunk. Cut checkerboard patterns in the wood or tree root.
For tree roots, it is also recommended to drill additional holes with a wood drill.
The purpose of this is to introduce oxygen into the wood. Compost or calcium cyanamide is filled into the holes.
Accelerate decomposition with compost and compost starter
You accelerate the decomposition of the stump or tree roots by adding compost, compost starter and compost accelerator to the wood. These agents promote colonization by microorganisms responsible for decomposing the wood. The compost should be mature or semi-mature. Make sure the material is not too dry but not too wet. You should repeat the filling with compost every spring.
In stores you can get Wurzel-Ex to stimulate the decomposition of the tree stump. Cheaper but equally successful is calcium cyanamide. These agents are also added to the holes. They supply much-needed nitrogen to the microorganisms.
Sowing lawn over tree root
A tree root will decompose faster if you seed sod over it. To do this, however, you will need to mill or saw off the top of the root to create a depression. This depression is filled with garden soil to create a layer about 10 to 15 cm thick. On this you can sow turf or lay sod. You will not notice any further decomposition.
Beautify the tree stump during decomposition
To make the tree stump less of a nuisance in the garden during the long period of decomposition, you can integrate it into the garden design.
It can be planted or greened by climbing plants.
As an art object, a tree stump also becomes a decorative highlight in the garden. However, if you want the work of art to last longer, you must prevent it from decomposing by sealing the tree stump.
Tips
If you want to remove the tree stump without digging, decomposing is the only option. Making the tree roots disintegrate by burning or blasting is dangerous and also not allowed almost everywhere.