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If you’re planning on keeping the tree, unless the roots are invasive, there’s no need to remove them, as doing so can cause damage to the tree. If the tree has been cut down and the stump and roots are left, grinding and removing the stump can cause root decay for some species. For other species, the stump and roots will need to be removed to prevent pests, disease, and possible tree regrowth.

The dormant season between winter and late spring, when all the leaves have fallen off, is the best time of year to cut down a tree. Frozen earth is actually preferable for tree removal because it won’t disturb the surrounding landscape as much as it would if you removed the tree during warmer months.

If you’re looking to rot a tree stump fast, potassium nitrate will work far quicker than copper nails. First, drill several holes into the stump using a power drill, then pour potassium nitrate pellets into the holes. Next, add water to help the chemical absorb into the wood, thoroughly soaking the stump to ensure the pellets dissolve and spread evenly. Afterward, cover the stump with a tarp to retain moisture and block sunlight, then place mulch on top to secure it in place.

You can expect Epsom salt and vinegar to take between 6 to 12 months to kill and dry out a tree. That may sound like a long time, but it’s much faster than it takes most tree stumps to die. If your time frame is more limited than that, you may want to call in the stump removal pros to remove the trunk or grind it down, although this may cause more ground damage.