Dealing with stubborn tree stumps in your yard can be frustrating. They not only spoil the look of your landscape but also pose tripping hazards and attract pests. Removing these stumps traditionally requires hefty machinery or professional help, which can be expensive and disruptive.
Thankfully, stump killers offer a practical solution. These products are designed to effectively decompose the wood, making it easier to remove or allowing it to rot away naturally over time. In this guide, we’ll explore the best stump killers available, helping you reclaim your beautiful, hazard-free yard without breaking the bank.
7 Best Stump Killers Table
| Best stump killer | Active Ingredients | Form | Buying Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| BioAdvanced Stump Killer | Triclopyr | Spray | Check On Amazon |
| Roundup Stump Killer | Glyphosate | Spray | Check On Amazon |
| Fertilome Stump Killer | Triclopyr | Liquid | Check On Amazon |
| Bonide 2746 Stump Killer | - | Spray | Check On Amazon |
| Hi-Yield 11484 Stump Killer | Triclopyr | Spray | Check On Amazon |
| Monterey Stump Killer | Triclopyr | Spray | Check On Amazon |
| Southern Ag 01112 Stump Killer | Triclopyr | Spray | Check On Amazon |
7 Best Stump Killers Reviews
1. BioAdvanced Stump Killer
If you’re looking for a powerful way to deal with those persistent tree stumps, this Stump Killer by BioAdvanced is a solid choice. Its systemic formula penetrates deep into the roots, ensuring even the toughest plants, including poison ivy and kudzu, are thoroughly eradicated. With its ability to tackle invasive species, this product works over the course of several weeks to completely eliminate stumps and their roots.
For those tackling various types of problematic vegetation, its versatility and effectiveness make it a top choice. The application is simple just apply it directly to the stump with a paintbrush or sprayer. Keep in mind that it requires some patience, as visible results may take 1 to 6 weeks. Additionally, it offers rainproof protection within 4 hours, ensuring the solution remains effective even in wet conditions.
Specifications:
- Liquid Volume: 32 Fluid Ounces
- Item Form: Spray
- Active Ingredients: Triclopyr
- Coverage: 4000 square feet
- Rainproof: 4 hours after application
- Target Plants: Over 70 types including kudzu, poison ivy
- Results Visible: In 1-6 weeks
- Application: Direct spray or paint on stumps
Pros:
- Effective systemic action reaches deep roots.
- Suitable for a wide variety of woody plants and vines.
- Rainproof in just 4 hours, ensuring effectiveness despite weather.
- Large coverage area up to 4000 square feet per bottle.
- Visible results within weeks, providing a clear measure of progress.
Cons:
- Not suitable for use in edible gardens or near water sources.
Customer Feedback: Users appreciate its effectiveness on a wide range of brush and stumps, noting visible results within weeks. However, some mention it requires patience and possibly multiple applications for complete eradication.
2. Roundup Stump Killer
Offering fast and effective weed control, this product from Roundup is designed for stump removal and gets to work quickly, with visible results in a day. It’s known for tackling tough weeds such as poison ivy, wild blackberry, and kudzu. Using glyphosate as its main ingredient, the product not only kills the weeds you see but also works deep in the soil to prevent regrowth. This makes it perfect for large open areas like walkways and fence lines that require fast-acting solutions.
The application is simple, requiring dilution and use with a sprayer. Roundup is rainproof within 30 minutes, adding to its practicality. However, due to the strength of glyphosate, careful handling is important to avoid damage to desirable plants and minimize environmental risks. Despite these precautions, Roundup Stump Killer remains a highly effective option for those seeking quick and thorough control over invasive plants and stubborn brush.
Specifications:
- Liquid Volume: 32 Fluid Ounces
- Item Form: Spray
- Active Ingredients: Glyphosate
- Rainproof: 30 minutes after application
- Target Plants: Over 200 types including poison ivy and wild blackberry
- Results Visible: In as fast as 24 hours
- Application: Dilute and spray
Pros:
- Quick visible results in as little as 24 hours.
- Effective against a broad range of weeds and brush.
- Rainproof in just 30 minutes for weather-resistant application.
- Easy to use with recommended sprayer for even application.
- Comes with a satisfaction guarantee or money back.
Cons:
- Not suitable for all plant types; may harm grasses and flowers.
Customer Feedback: Many find Roundup Stump Killer fast-acting and highly effective against tough weeds, but concerns about environmental impact and safety for surrounding plants are common.
3. Fertilome Stump Killer
Fertilome Stump Killer provides an effective solution for removing stubborn stumps and vines, making it a go-to option for tackling tough woody plants. Its key feature is the ability to not only kill the plant but also prevent regrowth, which is crucial for anyone dealing with persistent stump problems after tree removal.
With triclopyr as the active ingredient, Fertilome ensures deep penetration into the stump, enhancing its killing power. It works best when applied directly to freshly cut stumps, but it can also be diluted for use on invasive vines. Application is simple—either use it undiluted with a paintbrush or mix with water for spraying. While it’s safer for surrounding plants than other herbicides, proper handling is still important for safe use.
Specifications:
- Liquid Volume: 1 Gallon
- Item Form: Liquid
- Active Ingredients: Triclopyr
- Application Method: Brush or spray
- Specific Use: Stumps and woody plants
- Treatment Timing: Apply within 45 minutes of cutting
- Environmental Safety: Less harmful to non-target plants
Pros:
- Highly effective against woody plants and stumps.
- Can be applied directly or diluted, versatile in use.
- Quick action when applied to fresh cuts.
- Safer for surrounding vegetation than many competitors.
- Large volume provides good value for extensive use.
Cons:
- Not suitable for use near water sources or edible crops.
Customer Feedback: Customers praise Fertilome for its reliability on tough stumps and woody plants, citing ease of use with direct applications. However, a few users wished it was more effective on non-woody plants.
4. Bonide 2746 Stump Killer
Bonide 2746 Stump Killer is highly effective in eliminating weeds within 1-6 weeks, specifically designed to target stubborn woody plants and vines. It is ideal for controlling unwanted growth around homes, offering a reliable solution to maintain both the appearance and safety of your landscape. The product can be applied undiluted directly to stumps or used as a foliar spray to handle invasive plants. Its fast-acting formula stops regrowth quickly, making it an essential tool for garden upkeep. Additionally, it can be used with either a hose-end or tank sprayer, providing flexibility in application.
While Bonide Stump Killer is known for its effectiveness, it is important to follow the usage instructions carefully to prevent damage to desirable plants. The product works best when plants are actively growing, as it absorbs through the leaves to kill the roots. Given its chemical strength, it’s important to wear protective clothing during application to ensure safety. Proper application and care can result in efficient weed and stump control without unintended harm to your garden.
Specifications:
- Liquid Volume: 8 Fluid Ounces
- Item Form: Spray
- Application Method: Hose-end or tank sprayer
- Target Uses: Woody plants, vines, broadleaf weeds
- Usage Area: Around homes, cabins, fences, walkways
- Effectiveness Time: 1-6 weeks
Pros:
- Flexible application methods for different needs.
- Effective on a variety of woody plants and vines.
- Quick results within weeks depending on the plant.
- Easy to apply with common garden sprayers.
- Small, manageable bottle for easy handling.
Cons:
- Not ideal for larger areas due to small volume.
Customer Feedback: Bonide is favored for its quick action and flexibility in application methods. Nevertheless, users advise caution to avoid damage to desirable vegetation and note the small bottle size can be limiting.
5. Hi-Yield 11484 Stump Killer
If you’re looking for an efficient way to deal with stubborn vines and woody plants, the Hi-Yield 11484 offers a powerful stump-killing solution. This product relies on Triclopyr to tackle even the toughest regrowth, ensuring that stumps and vines are gone for good. Designed for undiluted application on fresh cuts, it penetrates deeply, delivering effective results with minimal need for repeat treatments.
The product is easy to use, needing only a paintbrush for direct application. Despite its strength, it’s considered safer for the surrounding environment compared to broader-spectrum herbicides, as it only targets the treated areas. This precision makes it a popular choice for homeowners who want effective results while minimizing the impact on their landscape.
Specifications:
- Liquid Volume: 16 Fluid Ounces
- Item Form: Spray
- Active Ingredients: Triclopyr
- Application Method: Paint brush
- Target Plants: Woody plants, vines, poison ivy
- Best Use: Direct application to fresh cuts
- Safety Features: Lower risk to non-target plants
Pros:
- High effectiveness, especially on tough stumps.
- Precision application minimizes waste and environmental impact.
- Safe for use around non-target plants when used correctly.
- Easy to apply with common household tools.
- Concentrated formula provides good value for coverage.
Cons:
- Small volume might not suffice for larger projects.
Customer Feedback: Users report high effectiveness in killing stumps when applied directly to fresh cuts, though they note that the small volume requires purchasing multiple bottles for larger projects.
6. Monterey Stump Killer
Monterey Stump Killer is a powerful solution for controlling woody plants and vines, making it an ideal choice for gardeners and landscapers. Its concentrated formula, containing triclopyr, effectively targets and kills stumps while preventing regrowth. This makes it a versatile option for tackling tough plant problems.
The product is particularly strong against woody plants like poison ivy, alder, blackberry, and cottonwood. Since it’s concentrated, it requires mixing with water before application, allowing you to adjust the strength based on the size of the area and the severity of the issue. However, it may require multiple applications for more resilient species, and careful use is important to protect surrounding plants and ecosystems.
Specifications:
- Liquid Volume: 32 Fluid Ounces
- Item Form: Spray
- Active Ingredients: Triclopyr, Herbicide
- Application Method: Mix with water and spray
- Target Uses: Control of woody plants and vines
- Suitable For: Outdoor residential use only
- Environmental Considerations: Not for use on edible crops
- Rainproof: Rainfall within 24 hours may reduce effectiveness
Pros:
- Broad spectrum effectiveness on a variety of woody plants.
- Customizable concentration for different applications.
- Large volume for extensive coverage.
- Prevents regrowth of tough weeds and stumps.
- Concentrated formula offers a potent solution for stubborn plants.
Cons:
- Rain can diminish its effectiveness shortly after application.
Customer Feedback: Customers find Monterey effective for controlling a variety of woody plants. However, the need for careful mixing and environmental concerns slightly detract from its overall appeal.
7. Southern Ag 01112 Stump Killer
Southern Ag 01112 Stump Killer is designed to eliminate tough woody plants and stop them from sprouting again. It uses the herbicide triclopyr to effectively control various types of brush, trees, vines, and stumps. This product is especially useful in non-crop areas such as roadsides, pastures, and fence lines, making it a good choice for large-scale applications where preventing regrowth is essential. The formula is applied as a full-volume spray, allowing users to cover a large area efficiently.
While it delivers reliable results, Southern Ag Stump Killer requires careful handling to avoid harming nearby desirable plants. Proper application and the use of protective gear are necessary to minimize environmental impact and ensure safety. Users should follow all safety guidelines closely during use.
Specifications:
- Liquid Volume: 16 Fluid Ounces
- Item Form: Spray
- Active Ingredients: Triclopyr
- Application Method: Full volume spray
- Target Uses: Non-crop areas, brush control
- Specific For: Woody plants, vines, broadleaf weeds
- Usage Area: Roadsides, pastures, fence rows
- Environmental Safety: Requires careful use to protect surrounding areas
Pros:
- Effective against a wide variety of woody and vine plants.
- Suitable for use in large non-crop areas.
- Prevents new growth effectively after application.
- Compact packaging for easy handling.
- Can be applied directly to stumps for targeted action.
Cons:
- Not suitable for residential or garden use near homes.
Customer Feedback: Southern Ag is appreciated for its effectiveness in non-crop areas and ability to prevent regrowth, though its application requires precision, and there are some concerns about its environmental impact.
Factors To Consider When Buying The Best Stump Killers
When purchasing a stump killer, several critical factors should guide your decision to ensure effective and efficient stump removal. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each essential aspect to consider:
1. Active Ingredients
The choice of active ingredients is crucial as it determines the effectiveness and suitability for specific stump types:
- Glyphosate: Typically found in concentrations ranging from 18% to 50%. It’s most effective on large stumps, ensuring deep systemic killing from foliage to root.
- Triclopyr: Concentrations generally vary between 8% and 30%. This ingredient targets broadleaf stumps more aggressively and disrupts growth patterns.
- Potassium Nitrate: Often used to speed up the decomposition rather than outright killing, found in concentrations up to 20%.
2. Application Method
Different methods suit different conditions and stump types:
- Brush-On: Requires direct application to the stump surface. Best used within 30 minutes of cutting to maximize absorption.
- Spray: Effective for inaccessible stumps, but prone to drift. Suitable for stumps with diameters less than 10 inches.
- Granules: Best for residual effect, applied in a perimeter around the stump. Effective for multiple small stumps spread over an area.
3. Environmental Safety
Selecting environmentally safe products is crucial:
- Soil Impact: Choose stump killers that degrade within 3 to 6 months to minimize long-term soil toxicity.
- Water Runoff Potential: Products should have minimal leaching potential to protect nearby water sources from contamination.
4. Time To Effectiveness
The effectiveness timeline can influence project planning:
- Fast-Acting Chemicals: Results can be seen as quickly as 4 weeks, suitable for urgent land clearance.
- Slow-Acting Formulas: Take from 3 to 12 months for complete effectiveness, recommended for thorough and permanent stump removal.
5. Safety Precautions
Proper safety measures are essential to avoid health risks:
- Protective Gear Recommendations: Most products require gloves, goggles, and sometimes a respirator during application.
- Label Warnings: Detailed guidelines help mitigate risks of misuse, particularly important in areas accessible to children and pets.
FAQs:
The time it takes for a stump killer to work varies depending on factors like the size of the stump, the type of tree, and the product used. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for a stump to completely rot away.
While many stump killers are considered relatively safe for the environment, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and avoid applying them near water sources or sensitive areas. Some products may contain chemicals that can harm plants or animals if not used properly.
Yes, there are natural methods for killing tree stumps. These include covering the stump with salt or borax, drilling holes into it and filling it with saltpeter, or repeatedly cutting back any new growth that emerges. These methods may take longer than chemical solutions but can be a more environmentally friendly option.
The best time to apply a stump killer is typically in the spring or fall when the tree is actively growing. This is because the tree’s roots will be more actively absorbing nutrients, allowing the stump killer to be more effective.
No, stump killers are designed to kill the roots of a dead tree. Applying a stump killer to a living tree can damage or kill the entire tree.
While a stump killer can eventually cause a stump to rot away, grinding it can expedite the process and make the area safer. Grinding also prevents the stump from becoming a breeding ground for pests or fungi.
It’s best to wait a few weeks before applying a stump killer to a freshly cut stump. This allows the tree’s energy reserves to deplete, making the stump more susceptible to the effects of the chemical.
Yes, there are several safety precautions to follow when using a stump killer. Always wear protective gloves, eye protection, and clothing that covers your skin. Avoid breathing in the fumes, and keep the product away from children and pets.
No, you should not use a stump killer in wetland areas. These areas are sensitive ecosystems, and applying a chemical could harm aquatic plants and animals.
Conclusion
After comparing various stump killers, it’s clear that each has its strengths. Some work quickly, while others offer more precision with less impact on the environment. Your perfect fit depends on the specifics of your stump problems and personal preferences.
Top 3 Recommendations
- For Fast Results: If you’re looking for quick action, Roundup Stump Killer stands out as it starts working within 24 hours, making it ideal for urgent garden clean-ups.
- For Environmental Safety: If safety and environmental impact are your primary concerns, Fertilome Stump Killer is a great choice, as it’s effective while being less harmful to surrounding plants.
- For Comprehensive Control: For those needing a robust solution against a variety of woody plants, Monterey Stump Killer offers broad-spectrum control and customizable application, suitable for extensive areas.
