Q: Can I use a chainsaw to kill a tree stump?

• <div><p>You can use a chainsaw, but it won&rsquo;t remove the entire stump or root ball and is not a recommended method. It takes quite a bit of physical work to achieve and will likely dull or ruin your chainsaw. Instead, consider using salt, herbicide, light deprivation, boiling water, stump grinding, or burning to kill a tree stump. These methods allow you to kill a stump using minimal machinery and physical exertion. </p></div>

Q: Does Dutch elm disease affect other trees?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s not as common for Dutch elm disease to affect other types of trees, especially if the surrounding trees aren&rsquo;t elms. However, it is possible for DED to spread to other trees, particularly in northern states, like Minnesota. In fact, it&rsquo;s a good idea to use geography to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/tree-and-wood-identification-your-backyard.htm">identify wood</a> and determine which types of trees are in your yard. </p><p>Unfortunately, the complex and shallow root system of elm trees makes surrounding elm trees particularly vulnerable to DED. Early discovery is key!</p></div>

Q: Do you need a permit to grind a stump?

• <div><p>You don&rsquo;t always need a permit to grind a stump, but you might need one depending on your location and the stump&rsquo;s surroundings. Permits are often needed if the stump is part of a protected tree species, near public areas or utility lines, or close to environmentally sensitive zones like wetlands. Some cities also regulate noise and work hours. Always check local rules before grinding, and contact your city or county office if you're unsure.</p></div>

Q: Do spotted lanternflies kill trees and plants?

• <div><p>According to scientists at <a href="https://www.psu.edu/news/agricultural-sciences/story/spotted-lanternfly-lore-penn-state-experts-clear-falsehoods-about-pest/">Penn State University</a>, spotted lanternflies do not typically kill the trees and plants they feed on, but they can cause branches and segments to die off. However, they have been found to kill cultivated grapes, which can have devastating consequences for vineyard owners and regions that heavily rely on vineyards to create jobs and generate revenue. They have also killed the Ailanthu altissima, known as the tree of heaven, though this is classified as a noxious and invasive weed tree.</p></div>

Question 1

Can I use a chainsaw to kill a tree stump?

Accepted Answer

•

You can use a chainsaw, but it won’t remove the entire stump or root ball and is not a recommended method. It takes quite a bit of physical work to achieve and will likely dull or ruin your chainsaw. Instead, consider using salt, herbicide, light deprivation, boiling water, stump grinding, or burning to kill a tree stump. These methods allow you to kill a stump using minimal machinery and physical exertion.

Question 2

How do you hollow out a tree stump?

Accepted Answer

•

There are several methods to hollow out a tree stump, and the best one depends on your tools, experience, and priorities. Common methods include using a chisel and hammer, a chainsaw, or burning.

Chisel and Hammer: This is often considered the easiest approach for those with limited tools or experience, though it is the most time-consuming.
Chainsaw: Using a chainsaw is the fastest method, but it comes with significant safety risks, especially for inexperienced users.
Burning: This can be an effective method, but it is not recommended unless you can first drill holes into the stump. Without holes, the stump will be difficult to light and may not burn completely through.

A power drill with at least a ⅜-inch diameter bit can make the job quicker and easier, regardless of the primary method. While you can use a chisel or chainsaw without a drill, it will require more time and effort. Always wear protective goggles and thick gloves, as splinters are an inevitable risk.

Question 3

Does Dutch elm disease affect other trees?

Accepted Answer

•

It’s not as common for Dutch elm disease to affect other types of trees, especially if the surrounding trees aren’t elms. However, it is possible for DED to spread to other trees, particularly in northern states, like Minnesota. In fact, it’s a good idea to use geography to identify wood and determine which types of trees are in your yard.

Unfortunately, the complex and shallow root system of elm trees makes surrounding elm trees particularly vulnerable to DED. Early discovery is key!

Question 4

Do you need a permit to grind a stump?

Accepted Answer

•

You don’t always need a permit to grind a stump, but you might need one depending on your location and the stump’s surroundings. Permits are often needed if the stump is part of a protected tree species, near public areas or utility lines, or close to environmentally sensitive zones like wetlands. Some cities also regulate noise and work hours. Always check local rules before grinding, and contact your city or county office if you're unsure.