How to stop a tree stump from growing back?

Aaron Cull
Aug 13
3 min read

Cutting down a tree doesn’t always mean it’s gone for good. In Calgary, many homeowners are surprised when a tree stump starts producing new shoots weeks, or even months, after removal. Whether you’re managing property aesthetics, preventing hazards, or prepping for landscaping, stopping stump regrowth is critical for long-term success.

So what’s the best way to stop a stump from growing back, and who can help? Here’s what you need to know, and why Evergreen LTD is your go-to Calgary arborist for reliable stump removal solutions.

Why Do Stumps Keep Growing?

When a tree is cut down, the root system remains alive and may continue sending out suckers or new shoots. This is especially true for deciduous species like poplar, willow, maple, and ash. Their underground energy reserves can support regrowth for months, even years.

Preventing regrowth requires destroying the living tissue in the stump, and sometimes the root system too.

The Most Effective Methods to Stop Stump Regrowth

1. Professional Stump Grinding or Removal (Best Long-Term Solution)

Grinding destroys the stump below ground level, including the buds and cambium tissue that cause regrowth.
Full removal eliminates both the stump and large root sections.

Pros:

Fast, permanent, and highly effective.
Ideal for stubborn or large stumps.

Cons:

Requires specialized equipment and professional expertise.

Evergreen LTD offers ISA-certified stump grinding services in Calgary that ensure complete removal and zero regrowth risk.

2. Cut-and-Paint Herbicide Treatment

This method involves:

Cutting the stump as close to the ground as possible.
Immediately applying a concentrated herbicide (e.g., glyphosate or triclopyr) directly to the cambium layer.
Timing is critical... apply within 10 to 15 minutes after cutting.

Pros:

Very effective for tree species prone to suckering.
Selective and controlled when applied correctly.

Cons:

Chemical handling requires care and compliance with Alberta’s environmental regulations.

Not sure how to do this safely? Contact Evergreen LTD, we use precise application techniques that meet ISA standards and protect your yard.

3. Epsom Salt or Rock Salt (Slower, DIY Method)

Drill holes 8–10 inches deep into the stump.
Fill with salt and water, then cover with a tarp.
Reapply every few weeks for 6–12 months.

Pros:

Low cost and chemical-free.
Good for non-urgent or small-scale removal.

Cons:

Very slow, not always effective.
May still allow some root sprouting.

For homeowners considering this route, our team can inspect your tree species to see if salt treatment is even worth the effort.

4. Potassium Nitrate (Stump Remover)

Speeds up natural decay when added to drilled holes.
Typically takes 4–6 weeks for the wood to break down.

Pros:

Quicker than salt.
Makes stump easier to break apart.

Cons:

Still allows potential regrowth.
Not ideal for large or vigorous species.

5. Other Natural or DIY Techniques

Boiling water poured into drilled holes can damage stump tissue, but requires repetition.
Copper nails may have limited effect unless used in large quantities.

Bottom Line: These methods are unreliable and rarely prevent regrowth entirely.

Why Choose a Professional Arborist Instead of DIY?

While some methods can be attempted at home, they come with significant downsides:

Time: DIY methods often take months and require regular follow-up.
Effectiveness: Inconsistent results, especially with resilient tree species.
Safety: Misused herbicides or tools can cause harm to people, pets, and nearby vegetation.

Don’t take chances with partial solutions. Evergreen LTD provides fast, proven, and environmentally responsible stump treatments. Our ISA-certified Calgary arborists assess the site, recommend the best approach, and execute the job safely and thoroughly.

Timing and Tree Species Matter

Trees like willow, poplar, and ash are notorious for aggressive regrowth.
The “cut-and-paint” method is most effective in autumn or winter, when sap flows downward.
Stump grinding is effective year-round.

We assess the species and timing to choose the best method for your specific situation.