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You need to remove all branches affected by Dutch elm disease. If your tree has several affected branches, you will probably need to remove the entire tree. First, consult a pro to be sure that you’ve correctly identified it as an elm tree. Make sure the tree is properly disposed of with a plastic covering or through debarking, chipping, or burning.

The fastest tree-stump killing method is stump grinding. Professional stump grinders can chip away at the stump and remove its roots within one session, potentially more for extra-large stumps. However, we recommend hiring a local stump grinding professional for this task because the machinery is dangerous to operate without prior experience, increasing the safety risk and likelihood of a more difficult removal.

The most common alternative is burning the stump first, then dealing with the cinders and ashes. As you can imagine, this option creates fire hazards, especially since roots can burn underground, hidden, for long afterward. That’s why many states and cities have outlawed the use of stump burning entirely. We do not recommend this option as a viable alternative unless you get a permit from the local fire department and practice all safe burning procedures.

Others prefer a more long-term DIY approach of degrading the stump with home mixtures like Epsom salt and vinegar injected directly into it. This may help the stump decay faster, allowing homeowners to dig it out themselves, but it’s still a lengthy process. It usually takes months for a stump to start falling apart with such treatments, and in the meantime, it can be vulnerable to rot, insects, and other problems.

If you’re hiring a company to perform stump grinding—or any home service for that matter—you’ll want them to at least have general liability insurance and worker’s compensation insurance. This type of coverage protects both you and the business in the case of any accidents. Professional liability insurance and inland marine insurance plans are also important for tree companies to have. Ask any pro you’re considering hiring about licenses and insurance coverage before booking the job.