Should You Burn a Tree Stump?

Burning tree stumps is one method to eradicate dead trees, fallen trees, old wood, or intrusive tree species. However, research shows it isn’t the best method for numerous reasons. You can remove tree stumps in other, more practical ways. Unfortunately, the burning method of stump removal is still used by people who don’t know there are other ways to remove tree stumps. Here’s what you should know about potential dangers if you burn a tree stump.

Why Do People Burn Tree Stumps?

People burn tree stumps to remove dead trees or old wood. Sometimes, fallen trees dry out and create obstacles – or tree stumps get in the way. Another reason people choose to remove tree stumps is pest control.

Burning stumps is still a common method of stump removal, but it’s not the only one. The only benefit of burning a tree stump is that it helps you eliminate it. However, it can come with profound environmental implications.

Is It A Good Idea To Burn a Tree Stump?

No. You should not burn a tree stump. There are dangers associated with it, which include:

Some wood types are poisonous
Negative environmental impact
Potential for wildfires

Alternatives exist, including digging around the stump and responsibly removing it. This removal method might seem like more effort, but it’s the better choice.

An Environmental Hazard

Burning creates a more significant environmental hazard. Often, the risk is more considerable than the reasons for thinking you have to burn the tree. Fire disrupts the environment and its ecology. They can also spread, adding to the potential danger of burning tree stumps.

People have poured kerosene or other chemicals on a stump, which is dangerous and harmful to the environment.

A Serious Fire Danger

Burning tree stumps can become a serious fire danger. Fires can spread quickly.

A fire stays hot for a long time after the initial flames have died. When a tree stump burns, it can smolder underground for several days. Fires that seem dead can still be alive.

That might be enough to spread or unintentionally ignite what’s around it. Wind, oxygen, and dormant fires combine to create an ecological danger that could spread for hundreds of miles.

It Can Be Against the Law

Burning tree stumps can be against the law. Local laws dictate how and where open fires can occur. For example, bonfires must be arranged ahead of time by contacting the local fire department or law enforcement.

Without this step, you’d be starting an illegal fire and could receive a fine. Fires that cause a more significant ecological issue can increase the fine. You could be charged for the damage, costing you thousands of dollars.

It seems like a quick solution, but it has such far-reaching implications that it’s not a good idea. When you look at it from a legal perspective, burning tree stumps isn’t worth it.

Burning Some Types of Wood Are Dangerous

Here is one more added level of danger. Unless you’re an expert on the tree type, you may release poisonous chemicals or compounds into the air.

Many wood types are poisonous and especially dangerous when burned. Here are a few examples of wood you should never burn:

Painted wood
Vine covered wood
Pressure treated wood
Wood from poisonous trees such as poison sumac, poison ivy, poison oak

More than an environmental risk, it comes with other potential dangers.

Don’t burn a tree stump. Instead, choose an alternative method.

Alternatives to Burning Tree Stumps

Burning may seem like a straightforward solution to removing a tree stump. However, it’s essential to consider alternative methods that offer effectiveness, safety, and environmental friendliness.

Here are some alternatives to burning tree stumps:

Stump Grinding

Stump grinding involves using a specialized machine to grind the stump into wood chips. This method effectively removes the stump below the ground level, eliminating the need for extensive digging.

Stump grinding is relatively quick, efficient, and minimally invasive to the surrounding landscape. It also allows for immediate replanting or landscaping in the area.

Chemical Stump Removal

Chemical stump removal products are available on the market. They work by accelerating the natural decomposition process of the stump. These products contain chemicals that break down the lignin and cellulose in the wood, causing the stump to soften and rot over time.

Chemical stump removal requires patience, as it may take several weeks or months to decompose fully. This non-invasive method does not involve heavy machinery or physical labor.

Professional Stump Removal Services

Hiring a professional stump removal company is often the most efficient and hassle-free option. Experienced professionals have the expertise and specialized equipment to safely and effectively remove tree stumps of any size.

While professional services may involve an upfront cost, the convenience, quality of work, and peace of mind they provide make it worth it. Especially for large or difficult-to-access stumps.

Tree Services of Omaha

Tree Services of Omaha, Nebraska is a full-service tree care provider that offers a wide range of arborist services including but not limited to: Tree Removal Services, Tree Trimming, Tree Pruning, Tree and Shrub Shaping, Stump Removal, Stump Grinding, Arborist Consultations, Systemic Tree Injections.