7 Fastest & Best Tree Stump Killer Reviewed

Many homeowners find themselves in a battle with stubborn stumps that can be a real headache to get rid of.

As experts in stump removal, we understand the unique challenges you face. Those deeply embedded roots can make removal a daunting task, especially if you don’t have the right tools and knowledge. But fear not – we’re here to equip you with the information and products you need to conquer those stumps once and for all.

Why Use a Chemical Stump Killer?

Before we dive into the top products, let’s address a common question: why opt for a chemical stump killer over manual removal methods? Here are a few key reasons:

• Efficiency: Chemical killers can effectively destroy the stump and roots with minimal effort on your part
• Time-saving: Properly applied chemicals often work faster than natural decay or manual digging
• Root control: Systemic herbicides prevent regrowth and suckering for a permanent solution
• Cost-effective: Investing in a reliable product can save money on removal costs and repeated treatments

While grinding or digging out a stump are certainly options, they’re incredibly labor-intensive and time-consuming. For most busy homeowners, a quality chemical killer is the most practical choice.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Stump Killer

With so many products on the market, how do you narrow down the options? Here are the key factors we evaluated in our search for the best stump killers:

Factor	Why It Matters
Active ingredients	Determines strength, effectiveness, and target plants/stumps
Ease of application	Impacts user experience, time, and results
Systemic action	Ability to penetrate roots for complete kill
Versatility	Added value if can be used on other nuisance vegetation
Rain fastness	Prevents wash-off for uninterrupted treatment
Safety	Critical for people, pets, and other plants

Prioritizing formulas that excel in these areas ensures selecting a top-tier product that caters to real-world needs and concerns.

Our Top Picks for Best Stump Killer

After extensive research and hands-on testing, we’ve identified the 7 most effective stump killers on the market. Each of these products has a proven track record and consistently delivers powerful results. While your individual needs may vary, we’re confident one of our picks will get the job done right.

1. Tordon RTU Herbicide

What sets Tordon RTU Herbicide apart is its powerful formula that effectively tackles 20 different woody plant species in addition to tree stumps. Its convenient ready-to-use design means no mixing or measuring – just apply directly to the stump.

The active ingredients get to work immediately, penetrating deep into the root system to prevent regrowth. You’ll appreciate the blue dye that clearly marks treated areas, ensuring thorough coverage.

While highly effective, it’s important to note that Tordon can harm surrounding vegetation, so precise application is key. Plan to avoid the treated area for planting for at least a year post-application.

If you’re looking for a heavy-hitting solution and are willing to exercise caution to protect nearby plants, Tordon RTU is a top choice backed by impressive results and scores of satisfied users.

Pros:

• Highly effective on 20+ woody plant species
• Ready-to-use formula – no mixing required
• Blue dye marks treated areas
• Prevents regrowth for a year or more

Cons:

• Can harm surrounding vegetation and grass
• Requires precise application

2. Fertilome Brush & Stump Killer

Fertilome offers a versatile solution that’s ideal if you’re dealing with more than just tree stumps. Its potent formula is designed to take down vines, brambles, and a variety of resilient, invasive woody plants.

The concentrated liquid packs a punch – a single 32 oz. bottle can treat up to 4000 sq. ft. For stumps, simply paint the full-strength product onto the freshly cut surface, allowing it to penetrate and prevent regrowth.

The active ingredient, Triclopyr, works systemically to kill stumps and undesirable brush down to the roots. While highly effective, it does break down quickly in soil and water, minimizing long-term environmental impact.

Fertilome is a smart choice if you have multiple woody plant issues to tackle beyond just stumps. It’s also a good option if you don’t want the hassle of drilling holes or the expense of renting a stump grinder.

Just be sure to carefully spot-treat and avoid contact with desirable plants, as this potent brush killer doesn’t discriminate.

Pros:

• Kills stumps plus a wide variety of problem brush and vines
• Highly concentrated – treats up to 4000 sq.ft.
• No stump drilling required
• Breaks down quickly in environment

Cons:

• Will harm any plant it contacts
• Requires careful spot-treatment

3. BioAdvanced Brush Killer

For an effective stump and brush killer that’s a bit gentler on your grass, consider BioAdvanced Brush Killer. While powerful enough to take out over 70 hard-to-kill plant species, it won’t leave your entire yard looking like a war zone.

The 32 oz. concentrate makes 8 gallons of spray – ample coverage for the average yard’s needs. Simply apply the undiluted product to the tops of freshly cut stumps or the leaves of brush you want to eliminate.

The active ingredients, including Triclopyr, work their way through the plant’s vascular system down to the roots, killing it completely and preventing regrowth. Any grass that inadvertently gets sprayed may yellow but likely won’t die completely.

BioAdvanced is an excellent choice if you want to manage woody plant and stump issues without decimating your entire lawn in the process. It also provides great value for your money.

Just know that it may take a few applications for the toughest stumps, and be patient – visible results can take several weeks as the plant slowly dies back.

Pros:

• Kills 70+ tough plant species
• Makes 8 gal. of spray per 32 oz. bottle
• Gentler on grass vs. other brush killers
• Prevents regrowth

Cons:

• May need multiple applications for dense stumps/brush
• Slow to show visible results

4. Spectracide Stump Remover Granules

For an added stump-busting boost, consider pairing your chosen liquid stump killer with Spectracide Stump Remover Granules. These granules are designed to speed up the process of stump decomposition.

After treating your stump with a liquid killer like Tordon or Fertilome, simply drill some additional holes and pack them with the granules. Soak the stump well with water to activate. The nitrogen-rich formula will accelerate decay without harming surrounding soil.

Using these granules can literally shave months off your timeline for stump removal vs. using a liquid killer alone. While you’ll still need some patience, you should notice the stump getting spongier within several weeks.

Spectracide granules are an affordable way to give extra oomph to your stump-killing regimen. They’re incredibly easy to apply and gentle on the environment when used properly.

If you want to fast-track your stump-removal efforts, give Spectracide Granules a try alongside your primary stump killer of choice. You just might be pleasantly surprised at how quickly that stump transforms into removable mush.

Pros:

• Speeds up stump decay process
• Easy to apply granules
• Won’t harm surrounding soil or plants
• Affordable extra boost to any liquid stump killer

Cons:

• Requires drilling additional holes in stump
• Best used in conjunction with liquid stump killer for full effect

5. Bonide Vine & Stump Killer

For a gentle yet effective option, consider Bonide Stump & Vine Killer. Perfect for use near flower beds or gardens, this potent formula targets stumps and vines without damaging surrounding plants.

The convenient ready-to-use bottle comes with an applicator brush top, making targeted treatment a cinch. Simply paint the liquid onto freshly cut stumps, covering the entire surface area.

Bonide works best on stumps cut within 2-3 weeks, as it needs to be absorbed into living tissue. The active ingredient, Triclopyr, slowly kills the roots to prevent regrowth.

While you may sacrifice a bit of speed compared to heavy-duty stump killers, the peace of mind in knowing your prized plants are safe makes Bonide a worthy tradeoff.

This product is also a great value, with a little going a long way. You should get multiple applications out of a single bottle.

If you need a reliable stump and vine control option that won’t pose a risk to your landscaping, give Bonide Stump Killer a try. Its ease of use and plant-safe peace of mind make it a solid choice.

Pros:

• Won’t harm surrounding plants/grass
• Built-in applicator brush for precise treatment
• Effective on fresh stumps & vines
• Prevents regrowth

Cons:

• Works more slowly than some heavy-duty options
• Requires stump to be freshly cut for max absorption

6. Roebic K-77 Root Killer

Sometimes, directly attacking a stump from above isn’t enough. Especially for larger stumps with sprawling root systems, you need to go underground. That’s where a root-targeting product like Roebic K-77 comes in.

While commonly used to combat invasive roots in sewer lines, this potent root killer is equally effective on stubborn stumps when applied properly.

You’ll need to do a bit of digging to expose as much of the stump’s roots as possible. Once uncovered, saturate the roots with K-77 and let it work its magic. The active ingredient, copper sulfate pentahydrate, is absorbed by the roots, effectively killing them.

Any remaining product in the soil will help prevent new root growth, though it’s important to note this will also impact other nearby plants, so use thoughtfully.

While a root-focused approach is definitely more labor intensive vs. top-down stump killers, it can be the right call for those extra large or stubborn stumps, particularly if you plan to replant the area.

Just be prepared for a slightly longer process – it may take a few applications and several months for the stump to fully die back for removal. Patience and persistence are key.

If you’re up for some groundwork and need extra help to conquer a beast of a stump, Roebic K-77 could be your underground ally. Its root-ravaging power might be just what you need for the toughest takedowns.

Pros:

• Targets stump roots directly
• Helps prevent new root/stump growth
• Great for large, stubborn stumps
• Can be used to treat invasive roots in sewer lines

Cons:

• Requires digging to expose stump roots
• Will also kill roots of other nearby plants
• Longer process vs. top-down stump treatments

7. Gordon’s Stump Killer Ready-to-Use

If you’re seeking a simple but strong stump solution, consider Gordon’s Stump Killer. This no-nonsense, ready-to-use formula comes in an easy-to-apply squirt bottle.

Completely coat the freshly cut surface of the stump, allowing the potent chemicals to seep into the pores and work their way down to the roots. For larger stumps, drilling some holes can help with absorption.

Gordon’s starts working quickly to kill the stump and prevent regrowth or sprouts. Many users report visible results in just a few days.

The 32 oz. bottle provides plenty of product for multiple stumps or reapplications if needed. A little goes a long way.

As with most strong stump killers, be very careful to avoid over-spray onto surrounding grass and plants. Gordon’s packs a powerful punch and will damage any foliage it touches.

If you’re looking for a heavy-hitting, affordable, easy-to-use stump eliminator from a well-established brand, Gordon’s is a solid go-to. Just be sure to suit up with protective gear and only target what you intend to kill.

Pros:

• Strong, fast-acting formula
• Easy squirt bottle application
• Prevents regrowth & sprouting
• 32 oz. bottle treats multiple stumps

Cons:

• Will harm any plants/grass it contacts
• Strong chemicals require user precautions

About stump removal chemicals

Potassium nitrate is the active ingredient in the vast majority of stump removal products today. This chemical is renowned for its potential to speed up decomposition because it includes high nitrogen levels. Other compounds are used in certain formulations, but potassium nitrate is typically considered to be the most effective.

Types of Tree Stump Killers

Although most chemical stump removal treatments are powders, they are frequently advertised as containing small granules. The main reason that granules are favored over liquids is that they are easier to apply.

This may seem counterintuitive, but it makes sense once you grasp how tree stump killers work. Liquids, on the other hand, evaporate over time and are hence not necessarily as efficient or effective.

When looking for chemical stump removal products, powders make up nearly all of the top choices. Finding the proper powder can be difficult, but the easiest way is to read reviews for several products. They all work in the same basic fashion, and you can use them by following the same instructions.

How to use tree stump killers & chemical stump removers

When you know how to use these items, it’s easy to locate an efficient chemical stump removal solution. The following are the basic steps that are commonly used:

1. Collect the necessary equipment. You’ll also need a chainsaw, a drill, a ⅜-inch or larger drill bit, kerosene, a lighter, water, and tree stump killer.
2. Cut the stump as close to the ground as possible. A chainsaw is the quickest and safest way to achieve this. The fewer the stumps that rot, the easier they are to remove.
3. Drill holes every two to three inches into the stump using a drill. Drill them down to a depth of at least eight to ten inches. Use a drill bit with a diameter of at least ⅜ of an inch.
4. Drill further holes from the sides, parallel to the ground, and intersect with the holes drilled from the top of the stump.
5. Pour a generous amount of powder chemical stump removal into each of the openings on top of the stump. Granules are even easier to work with, so look for a product that isn’t just a fine powder. Granules will flow more freely down the pores, whereas powder would likely clog near the top. The idea is to inject the medicines as deeply as possible into the stump.
6. Fill the holes in the stump with water. To figure out how much water to use, read the instructions for your product. Don’t dilute the tree stump killer too much. If you do, it may not function properly or as rapidly as it should.
7. To prevent children and animals from playing with the stump, cover it. Keep in mind that the chemicals will be active for several weeks, so contact with the stump could be hazardous. You may even cover it with rocks or a pile of junk wood.
8. Check the stump’s condition regularly. It should start to become spongy and have a mulch-like consistency over time. You’ll know the chemicals have done their work when it becomes incredibly simple to break.
9. At this point, it’s usually impossible to entirely remove the stump by hand. Most of the time, you’ll need to soak what’s left of the stump in kerosene for many weeks. Keep it covered while it soaks.
10. Set the stump on fire once the kerosene has been entirely absorbed. Always keep an eye on the fire and never leave it unattended. When the stump is entirely burned away, the fire should go out. All leaves will be a hole, and some roots sprouting from the stump’s former location. Simply remove them, fill in the hole, and seed or sod the area.

Consider this before you buy

Let’s take a look at a few essential aspects now that we’ve examined the best stump killer on the market:

Tree stump location

You must examine the position of the tree stump you want to remove.

Tree stump killers are powerful chemicals that have the potential to harm any plants you want to keep.

Though some are grass and flower-safe, it’s best to be cautious when using the solution around plants you want to save. Keep in mind that the grass around the dying tree stump will most likely turn yellow or maybe die off. However, while the tree will die and not grow, grass will grow back in the area where the solution was applied.

Application methods

A tree stump killing treatment can be applied in two methods that are both effective.

Drilling holes into the exposed interior of the stump is the first and most recommended procedure. The chemical can then be poured deep into the stump. The solution will then enter the wood effectively and soak down to the roots.

The tree stump killer will kill the chemical that is simply applied to the freshly cut stump, although it may not be as successful as the previous procedure.

Regardless of your chosen approach, remember that stump killer should be poured into the stump or applied with a paintbrush.

Safety measures

Tree stump killers are exactly what they sound like: killers. They’re created using harmful chemicals that may kill trees. Therefore they’re likely to kill you as well. Always be cautious and use common sense when working with chemicals.

Wear thick, protective gloves, goggles, and closed-toed shoes. Cover exposed flesh such as the arms, feet, and legs to avoid backsplash.

Allowing yourself to inhale the chemicals directly is never a good idea. If you’re concerned about breathing in toxins, an inexpensive facemask could be handy. After handling the tree stump killer, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

When storing stump killer, keep it out of reach of children. The chemicals are dangerous and even lethal if swallowed. Therefore it’s critical to keep youngsters away when the poison is used.

Working time

Depending on the tree or plant type and if the stump is green and freshly cut, the time it takes for a chemical stump remover to break down a stump can vary. A stump removal herbicide that travels to the roots is required to prevent resprouting in recently cut stumps. Results may emerge in 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the product.

On the other hand, the stump may take many months to decay. A dead or “seasoned” stump is another form of stump that can be chemically removed. Even though these stumps cannot sprout new shoots, they can be harmful or obstruct new landscaping ideas.

In this situation, the stump removal product will contain a chemical that accelerates the decay of the old wood, which can take months or even years.

The owner may be able to pour kerosene on a partially degraded seasoned stump and burn it after a few months. Some chemical stump removers are intended to be used in tandem with stump burning. Check your local fire rules to verify if burning the stump is legal in your area before going this route.

Ingredients

Chemical stump killers are made up of herbicides and other chemicals that speed up the decomposition of stumps. The following active components are found in most stump-removal products:

• Glyphosate is a broad-spectrum herbicide that kills the roots by traveling through the vascular system of the stump. It can be used to destroy green stumps.
• Triclopyr is a systemic herbicide that causes a stump’s living roots to develop rapidly, causing the tree to become overwhelmed and die. Triclopyr is found in green stump-killing chemicals.
• Potassium nitrate, popularly known as “saltpeter,” not only kills the stump but is also one of the most effective components for hastening its decomposition. It can be found in products that kill green stumps as well as those that decompose seasoned stumps.
• Picloram is a systemic herbicide that is used to kill woody plants. This herbicide is found in stump-killing and stump-decomposition preparations.
• Sodium metabisulfite is an inorganic compound that aids in the decomposition of seasoned wood stumps. It’s not recommended for use on regrowing green stumps.

Application process

Although the directions for many chemical stump killers may differ slightly, the following application procedure is conventional:

1. Cut the stump down to the ground with a chainsaw and remove the side bark to expose as much surface area as possible.
2. Drill holes in the stump’s surface (more than a few inches in diameter). Alternatively, cut grooves in the stump’s surface using a chainsaw.
3. Apply a decomposing agent or a chemical stump killer. Depending on the product, this could involve dusting granules in the holes and then pouring hot water over the stump. It could also involve spraying or painting a liquid on the stump’s surface. Typically, spraying is reserved for stumps with green sprouts, which are also sprayed.
4. To keep children and animals safe, cover the stump.
5. Every 3 to 4 months, check on the stump.
6. It will eventually become spongy, allowing it to be dug out or burned and then dug out.

Budget

You’re hunting for tree stump killers since the cost of having them removed by professionals is prohibitively expensive. On the other hand, most tree stump killers are only available in 8 to 16-ounce bottles and cost $5 to $8 each.

You may end up spending more in the long run if you have massive tree stumps or sorts that are difficult to kill. As a result, look for tree stump killers that are also available in 32-ounce bottles.

Multipurpose

Sure, you’re just concerned with removing tree stumps right now. Invasive plant species and unwanted vines will emerge from time to time, and you may want to eliminate them. As a result, you should consider purchasing a multifunctional stump killer that can remove tree stumps, vines, and other invasive plant species.

Best Tree Stump Killer Brands

Here are some of the top brands known for their effective stump killing products:

• VPG Fetilome: has been inventing and bringing excellent gardening and planting materials to the market since 1968. They specialize in herbicides, insecticides, and fertilizers to aid you in your quest to take control of your backyard.
• BioAdvanced: also known as the SBM Company, has specialized in fertilizers, herbicides, and insecticides since 1994, allowing you to develop, alter, and protect your land from unwelcome natural invaders. They are continually inventing and innovating new things to provide to their devoted clients.
• Spectracide: For years, Spectracide has been committed to providing households with effective weed and grass killers, insect killers, and fungal control products. In all things pest control, they try to be the finest of the best.
• Bonide: has been determined to achieve since the company’s inception in 1926. Bonide has been developing products for over a century, covering a wide range of lawn and garden care. Bonide provides everything from fertilizers and plant care to natural and synthetic herbicides and pesticides.

What are the benefits of tree stump killer?

There are various reasons why people use stump grinders to remove tree stumps. Here are some advantages of employing tree stump killers so you can learn more about the facts behind this important subject.

Safety

Stump killers help to keep the home safe, especially for families with busy children and pets. Because the major purpose of stump killers is to prevent sapling development before they are removed, applying them is the first step in ensuring that future tripping and poisoning considerations are avoided.

Protection

Tree stumps are ideal habitats for insects and pests, such as cockroaches, beetles, and termites, that thrive in moist and damp conditions of tree stumps. This sheltering for insects and pests might put you and your property at risk of infestation. They may also bring dangerous infections and other sanitary problems you are unaware of at first.

Inhibits sapling regeneration

As previously stated, the primary function of stump killers is to prevent sapling regrowth. When new leaves sprout in the stump, they can be a nuisance, especially because it will be more difficult to remove the entire stump. As a result, having chemicals that can kill the stump from the inside out through the roots aids in the prevention of regrowth significantly.

Additional points to keep in mind

Even while it would be ideal to utilize an environmentally friendly chemical stump removal product, none of them fit the bill. Using a stump grinder or pulling it out of the ground is the most environmentally friendly approach to removing a stump. Burning or rotting the stump is another method.

The outcome may differ from stump to stump. It all relies on the type and condition of the tree stump in question. Older stumps that have already begun to rot will decompose far faster than stumps from healthy, young trees. Above all else, remember to exercise patience. Allow time for the product to function.

FAQ

Will my tree stump killer harm the grass or surrounding plants?

A handful of the solutions on our list are safe for the plants surrounding the stump. On the other hand, tree stump killers are incredibly powerful treatments that can kill any plant from the root up, preventing regrowth for a year or more.

We strongly advise you to apply the solution solely to the inside of the stump and avoid allowing the chemical to come into touch with any plants you want to maintain.

Should I dilute the tree stump killer with water?

In most cases, no. Trees are highly hardy plants that require powerful remedies to destroy them down to the root. When applying the solution to a tree stump, it’s advisable not to dilute it unless the product description says otherwise.

A concentrated and effective method for killing a stump will always be more concentrated and effective than a diluted chemical.

How many hours is it before tree stump killers are rain safe?

Within a few hours (about 4) to a day, stump killer is safe to be rained on. However, it’s better to keep an eye on the weather and apply the killer to a warm, dry stump on a bright day with no rain in the forecast. It’s preferable to be trapped with a tree stump.

Will a stump killer prevent regrowth forever?

No. For about a year, a stump killer will prevent regrowth. Then grasses and other plants should begin to grow again. The tree, however, should not resprout.

How long before I start to see results?

The time it takes for a product to produce a result varies. It usually takes 2-10 days before you observe noticeable changes in the appearance of the tree stump. The stump should be dead off and ready for removal within a few weeks to a month.

Does stump killer have a shelf life?

In most cases, no. If a product has an expiration date, it will be specified on the bottle. Even after opening, you should be able to keep a tree stump killer for many years. Just keep in mind to carefully store the bottle.

Are there products that work all year round and not just in the warm seasons?

Chemical-free products can be used in any season, including the winter. You don’t have to wait for the soil to warm up to utilize nail spikes all year.

Conclusion

Tree stumps can be a real annoyance. They’re unattractive, take up valuable yard space, and are generally exceedingly difficult to get rid of. As a result, we’ve covered the best stump killer in this article to make your dreaded work a little easier.

Hopefully, after reading the reviews and gathering some information, you can determine which of the best tree stump killer meets your needs.

Last update on 2025-04-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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