What are the Different Types of Stump Remover Chemicals Commonly Used

An infected tree in your yard would most likely have infected roots. Hence, it’s crucial to remove the stumps.

Several stump remover chemicals are available on the market that you may use, or you may simply call the experts for help.

Known colloquially as a stump killer, such a chemical agent accelerates the rate at which the stump decays so that it can then be hauled away using heavy machinery.

Stump removal is not a DIY-friendly task at all. It requires experts who understand which types of chemicals are suitable for removing specific species.

That’s why it’s important to seek help from a reliable tree service provider like Panorama Tree Service to ensure safe and efficient stump removal.

Read on as we elaborate on the types of tree stump killers that are widely used.

An introduction to stump remover chemicals

The vast majority of stump killers use potassium nitrate (or saltpeter) as the primary active agent. These chemicals are available in powder form and are considered to be the most effective ones.

Due to the large amount of nitrogen that is released post-application of the powder, the decaying process of the stump and the wood bark is significantly increased. On most hardwood species, these tree stump killers usually finish the job by around 6 weeks from the date of application.

Furthermore, the nitrogen released also actively supports the growth of certain fungi that eat away at the stump, making it progressively weaker with each passing day.

Several agencies that specialize in removing heavy stumps also use sodium hydroxide instead of saltpeter. Sodium hydroxide is mixed with water in a 2:1 ratio for the best results. This is a liquid stump-removal chemical.

Lastly, in the case of stumps with very wide girths, specialists prefer either rock salt or magnesium sulphate. These chemicals are also mixed with water for the best results.

This is another liquid chemical that needs very careful application to the most afflicted parts of the stump.

There is some debate over whether powder-based tree stump killers are better than liquid options. Simply put, both are equally essential and are used depending on how quickly a stump requires removal. Powders cover a bit more area than their liquid counterparts, but overall, there is no clear winner!

The types of stump remover chemicals used widely

Now that you know a bit more about the nature of stump liquidators, let’s take a look at the types available.

• Sprectacide stump remover:  Spectracide is a proprietary stump killer that uses a dimethylamine/dibromide combination as the principal active chemical. It is widely used across the United States and is considered very safe for human use, provided the label instructions are followed.

The product is granular and has to be mixed with water. Once the powder is completely dissolved, it is sprayed over the affected and exposed areas of the stump. Unlike many of its competitors, Spectracide does not harm any vegetation in the vicinity of the tree stump and is known for its biodegradable nature.

What makes this product stand out from the rest is its low price tag, its ability to rapidly decompose the stump area, and also its environmental friendliness.

Not surprisingly, most professional firms dealing in herbicides, tree stump liquidators, and related fields prefer Sprectacide. If you ever hire the services of a tree removal agency, you’ll probably discover that they use this specific product as well!

• Tordon RTU: Another widely used and trusted herbicide and a very competent stump remover chemical, Tordon RTU is a brand owned by Dow AgroSciences. Dow is one of the world’s biggest producers of high-grade pesticides and agricultural products. This is a liquid product that can be used instead of potassium nitrate.

While nitrates are one of the mainstays of the industry, it often negatively affects the area surrounding its application point. Tordon RTU uses picloram, a safe systemic herbicide ideal for domestic use, to get rid of the stump by hastening the decaying process.

The Tordon RTU liquid has a bright blue dye, which is of great help when it’s being used. It helps mark those areas that have already been sprayed and saves you time!

The bottom line

Regardless of which stump remover chemical you choose, patience is key as the entire process takes a few weeks.

For extensive stump removal, it’s best to consult professional tree service experts who can handle the task efficiently and safely. For further assistance or queries, feel free to contact us.