If you live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area feel free to call me for an estimate for your stump removal needs or referrals for competent and capable tree service companies.
817-909-9085 budjackson@gmail.com

How to remove a tree stump

1. The old fashioned way: DIG IT OUT, Warning: this doesn't work well, isn't cost and time effective and if you're not in good physical condition could result in strains or injuries to your back. Dig a circle around the tree stump, if its a 1 foot diameter stump start about one and a half feet away from the stump digging downward and inward cutting through the roots as you go. The ideal tool for this is a shovel known as a 'sharpshooter' or sewer shovel. It has a long and narrow blade. Sharpen it to cut through tough roots. You may need an axe to get through larger roots. Continue digging forming an inverted cone beneath the tree stump. With persistence & sweat you'll have the stump out in a few hours or a day or two depending on the size of the stump.
2. Pull it out! Most shrub & smaller tree stumps can be simply pulled out with pick up or come-along (hand winch) . Just wrap a chain or strap around the tree or shrub. Tie it with a clove hitch knot (illustrated instructions on google search). Tie the other end of the chain or strap to your bumper or trailer hitch. Give it a steady and slow pull. You may have to leave slack so you can get a jerking force but only IF your vehicle's bumper can withstand the stress.
3. Rent a stump grinder: You can rent a stump grinder at most equipment rental yards as well as the 'big box' stores. These stump grinders are 9-13 horsepower and require a small amount of skill to operate. It is not usually a cost effective measure as most tree companies will remove a stump and do a better job for a little more than the stump grinder rental fee.
4. Rent a BIG grinder. This is a good option if you have a large or many stumps to grind. Only one rental company in our area carries big stump grinders; 50-70 horsepower. These require a bit of experience with smaller heavy equipment or tractors.
5. Call a pro. In most cases this is the best option. If you only have one tree stump to remove the minimum charge is usually comparable with the rental of a small grinder. If you have a lot of stumps to dig up a professional will do a thorough job allowing you to replant trees in the same spot, excavate for building or irrigation lines.