This is how it works with the right tool

This is how you can remove root residues:

• **spade and rope *: for logs with a maximum diameter of 30 centimeters
• Root rat: for larger stumps
• Root cutter: for stumps that cannot be reached with the excavator
• Composting: when the rhizome is supposed to disappear naturally

Spade and rope

Trees with shallow roots can be removed by hand with muscle power and a spade. Pierce the sharp implement into the soil around the base of the trunk and expose the root ball. Cut the plexus so that it can be lifted out of the hole. Fasten a rope around the stump and lever it out using steady movements.

Root rat

There are special root hoes that can be installed on small excavators. The attachment scrapes off the wood without becoming wedged. With this method, residues can be removed quickly and efficiently, even in small gardens. The prerequisite is that the tree stump can be reached with the excavator. Oak trunks with a diameter of 90 centimeters are no problem for the device, which you can borrow at many rental stations for around 20 euros per hour.

Root cutter

With a stump grinder, which you can rent at the hardware store for around 80 euros, stumps can be removed quickly. Shorten the tree close to the ground and place the device directly above the stump so that the vertically positioned knives can penetrate the wood when they are lowered. The root is slowly crushed by rotating movements. Since you set the milling depth yourself, you can either remove all or only part of the root remains.

Composting

A gentle variant for near-natural gardens is the natural rotting process, which you can accelerate with the right measures. Saws Cross grooves in the tree stump and fill them with half-ripened compost. A Compost accelerator animates the activity of the microorganisms. Until the wood has decomposed and new living beings have a basis for growth, you can decorate the stump with flower bowls.