The Pros and Cons to Burning a Tree Stump

After you take down tree, you’re bound to have a tree stump. Many tree stumps can be incorporated into a property’s lawn as a decorative feature, or even a functional asset, perhaps for bird houses or hammocks. However, many people want to get rid of the tree trunk completely, whether for new construction projects or for aesthetic curb appeal. Although there are many methods to getting rid of a tree stump, from stump grinding to full root stump removal, many homeowners are curious about a method that falls somewhere in between, known as stump burning. But before you grabbed some matches and a lighter, be sure you know what you need to know about burning a tree stump.

Continue reading to learn the basics to stump burning, including a review of the common pros and cons.

Fishers Tree Stump Removal 317-537-9770
Fishers Tree Stump Removal 317-537-9770

Stump Burning Basics

Most people assume stump burning involves lighting a tree stump on fire. In reality, stump burning requires a two-step process involving potassium nitrate or saltpeter, as well as a small controlled fire. Within the two-step process, the stump must also be cut at a certain angle, and several holes must be bored in the center of the trunk. From there, potassium nitrate and hot water are added, and once the substance has fully dissolved within the trunk, a small controlled fire is set on top.

But what about the legalities surrounding stump burning? Are there penalties for burning your tree stump without a particular certification or permit? Or is it perfectly legal to burn a tree stump on your property? Well, Indiana does have active open burning regulations that decrees trash burning against the law, typically forbidding all forms of open burning. However, there are exempt burning activities. One such exemption is agricultural maintenance burning. (IC) 13-17-9-1 and Open Burning Rule 326 IAC 4-1

So, stump burning is legal so long as you’re doing so on your own personal property. But does this mean you should do it? Here are the top pros and cons discussed among homeowners who’ve tried in the past.

✅ Pros

Tree stump burning is legal in Indiana, but always check with your local fire department first before beginning a project on your property. The most admired advantage to getting rid of a tree stump by burning practices is its efficiency and convenience. The materials you need to do so are available at your local home improvement store, or sometimes even in your own garage. For those who are familiar with setting fires and controlling fires, burning a tree stump could be very simple to do. For those who are not familiar with working with fire, it is strongly encouraged to not attempt tree stump burning on your own.

⛔ Cons

One of the most common and talked-about disadvantages to burning a tree stump is the low oxygen burn phenomenon. You see, tree stumps that are deep within the ground typically do not get enough oxygen exposure to support a fire. And even if they do support a fire, that fire is not likely to make any sort of notable difference in removing the tree stump from the lawn. Most often, in low oxygen burn environments, rather than eliminating the tree trunk, a charcoal material is produced in its place, which is usually impossible to get rid of.

Professional Stump Removal and Tree Service in Fishers, Indiana

Call 317-537-9770 for year-round tree care service and stump removal in Fishers, Indiana. We are highly trained and experienced tree care contractors that offer a wide range of residential and commercial tree services at competitive prices. We also offer tree service coupons and discounts! Request a free estimate, today.

Fishers Tree Service Coupons
Fishers Tree Service Coupons 317-537-9770

What Can I Do With an Old Tree Stump?

Tree Stump Removal 317-537-9770

Tree Stump Removal 317-537-9770

Just as sure as the old adage, “what goes up must come down”, for every tree that must be removed, you can guarantee a stump will be left in its place. But an old tree stump doesn’t have to be an eyesore. Whether you want to make it work with the rest of your landscaping, or you simply want it gone for good, you have a wide selection of practical and affordable options. Continue reading to learn a few of the most common solutions for dealing with a leftover tree stump.

Tree Stump Décor

If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, choose to incorporate your tree stump with your surrounding landscape. Many property owners have carved out old tree trunks, turning them into custom statues, flowerpots, chairs, and benches. But you may also choose to paint them, decorate them by planting flowers around placing planters on them, or hollow them out and use them as a storage bin for firewood, gardening tools, and more.

Stump Grinding

Stump Grinding 317-537-9770

Stump Grinding 317-537-9770

If you wish to level the tree stump so that it is even with the ground, you can choose to hire a professional tree care company for stump grinding service. Professional tree service contractors retain the proper equipment and training to safely and efficiently grind tree stumps down. Stump grinders use a rotating disc blade to chip away at the tree trunk until it is entirely leveled. Although the root system still remains below the ground, the trunk is no longer visible. If you need the entire tree stump removed, then you would require
professional stump removal services.

Stump Removal

Sometimes, grinding down a tree stump is not enough. In the case of construction and other excavating needs, a tree stump and its root system below would need to be removed entirely. This would require professional stump removal services. Companies use a series of stump removal methods depending on the unique circumstances of the surrounding property. This can include using cranes, trucks, pulleys, grinders, fire, and more. For this reason it is usually the more expensive option.

Fishers Tree Stump Removal

Tree Care Coupon Fishers IN

Tree Care Fishers Indiana 317-537-9770

Call 317-537-9770 for professional stump removal service in Fishers, Indiana. Our tree care contractors offer a wide range of residential and commercial tree services, including stump grinding and stump removal. We also offer free estimates, free tree care advice, and tree service coupons! And you can always count on us for neighborhood prices you can afford. Call 317-537-9770 to request a free quote for Fishers stump removal, today.

How to Tie Up Trees

When you need to dig up, transplant, or remove a tree, it is important to first tie up the branches properly. Tying up the lower sections of branches prior to tree removal helps to avoid damages to tree limbs and gives you a better workspace and view during the digging process. Branches that are not tied, or tied properly, will get in your way while you try to dig, scratch up your arms, and potentially break off. Continue reading to a brief guide to tying up tree branches for digging.

Tree Twine

Tree tying involves tying up branches from the bottom sections of the tree, and working your way upwards. In order to do this, you will need string or rope that is strong enough to get this job done. Be sure to purchase a decent quality tree twine, or string. The larger the tree branches, the thicker the twine should be. Some people choose to use two different types of twine, which is perfectly acceptable and entirely based on personal preference. Be sure you have a pair of gloves in case you are working with an evergreen or pine.

Tree Transplanting

Keep in mind that tree transplants should be done in the early spring following the seasonal thaw, or in the late fall prior to the ground thawing. You want to transplant a tree before the buds bloom, or before it goes dormant for the winter and the ground refreezes. If you choose to do this in the fall, be sure the leaves on the tree have already dropped before digging it up.

Here’s What To Do:

1. Find a North-Facing Branch. Tie a piece of string around it so that you know which direction it should be facing when it comes time to replant it. Failing to do so can result in tree sunburns or sun scalding.

2. Tie a Piece of Twine Around the Trunk Where it Meets the Soil. This will remind you how far to place the tree into the ground when replanting it.

3. Find a Bottom Branch. Tie twine around it and leave the string reel open-ended so you can continue twisting it around the tree.

4. Twist and Pull Twine Upwards. As you pull the twine around the tree, gently fold the branches upwards against the trunk and in the same direction. Be careful not to break any limbs. However, it’s not detrimental to the tree if you do break a few.

5. Tie Twine in a Loop. Once you reach the top of the tree, tie the twine into a loop.

For professional tree transplanting assistance, contact a qualified tree service company in your neighborhood. They can offer prompt and proficient tree services at an affordable price.

Tree Service Fishers Indiana

Tree Service Coupon Fishers Indiana

Tree Service Coupon Fishers Indiana

Call 317-537-9770 for professional tree services in Fishers, Indiana. We are dedicated tree care contractors with extensive training and experience in the tree service industry. Our teams can provide a wide range of tree services, including tree transplanting, tree removal, pruning, trimming, stump grinding, stump removal, and much more. Call 317-537-9770 so you can learn more about our affordable Fishers tree removal services, today.