Dealing with stubborn stumps and regrowth can be challenging. This guide highlights five reliable stump killer products designed to stop sprouting, kill woody plants, and simplify cleanup. Each option offers different application methods, whether you prefer ready-to-use formulas or concentrated solutions that you mix. Compare active ingredients, ease of use, and suitable environments to choose the best fit for your yard, fence lines, roadsides, or pasture management.
| Product | Brand | Format | Key Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stump-Out Stump & Vine Killer | Bonide | 8 oz concentrate | Kills stumps, vines, and broadleaf weeds; can be used as foliar spray |
| Fertilome Brush Killer Stump Killer | ferti-lome | 32 oz concentrate | Kills stumps and woody plants; brush application required |
| Tordon RTU | Dow AgroSciences | RTU liquid | Kills cut stumps in non-cropland areas; translocates to roots |
| Stump-Out Granules | Bonide | 1 lb granules | Accelerates stump decay; ideal for seasoned stumps |
| Ready-to-use Tree & Stump Kill Solution (Omni Depot) | OMNI DEPOT | 1 Qt ready-to-use | Deep stump kill, quick use; versatile for multiple sites |
Stump-Out Stump & Vine Killer
Bonide’s Stump-Out offers a versatile option for controlling woody plants and vines. The concentrate can be used undiluted on stumps to prevent sprouting, or diluted for foliar spraying via hose-end or tank sprayers. Its multi-use design supports garden and landscape maintenance while targeting stubborn stumps and vines.
Fertilome Brush Killer Stump Killer
Ferti-lome’s Fertilome Brush Killer Stump Killer is designed to eliminate stumps and woody plants, including vines and brush. For stump application, apply the product in its current form using a brush. When targeting foliage, mix 8 oz. of concentrate with 1 gallon of water and spray on leaves for effective absorption and translocation.
Tordon RTU
Dow AgroSciences’ Tordon RTU is a ready-to-use solution designed to kill cut stumps on fence lines and non-cropland areas. It translocates within the tree to suppress resprouts and is suitable for use in forested areas, fence rows, roadsides, and rights-of-way. Applicable where regulations allow, its effectiveness stems from systemic action against a range of woody species.
Stump-Out Granules
Bonide Stump-Out Granules accelerate stump decomposition, offering a fast-acting formula for outdoor use. When applied to seasoned stumps (cut for 18 months or longer), it speeds decay, facilitating easier removal and cleanup without extensive mechanical effort.
Ready-to-use Tree & Stump Kill Solution
OMNI DEPOT’s Ready-to-Use Tree & Stump Kill Solution provides a pre-mixed formula for immediate use. It is designed for quick application in yards, roadsides, fence lines, and pastures, delivering deep stump penetration to suppress regrowth. The included Omni Depot gloves support safe handling during application.
Bonide Vine & Stump Killer (2 Pack)
Bonide’s Vine & Stump Killer with Applicator combines a staining-ready concentrate with a practical applicator for easy direct-on-stump use. It’s designed to kill stumps, brush, and suckers, offering value in multi-pack formats for larger properties or ongoing maintenance.
Stump Stop (Omni Depot)
Omni Depot’s Stump Stop is a ready-to-use stump killer suitable for forests, pastures, and roadsides. It emphasizes versatile application sites—railroads, farm buildings, and fence rows—while offering pre-mixed convenience and compatible gloves for safe handling.
Dow AgroSciences RTU548 Tordon RTU
Tordon RTU offers effective cut-stump control for fence lines and non-cropland areas with translocation into the root system to minimize resprouts. This option is suitable where regulatory guidelines permit usage and where targeted, deep stump treatment is required.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
Target species and stump age: Mature stumps respond differently than fresh cuts. Some products work best on brush and vines, while others excel at stubborn hardwood stumps.
Form and application: Choose ready-to-use formulas for quick treatment or concentrates for custom dilutions. Consider whether you need a brush applicator, sprayer compatibility, or a multi-site solution.
Translocation and residual effects: Effective stump killers move within the plant to prevent sprouting, often offering longer-term suppression of regrowth and improved cleanup outcomes.
Safety and regulations: Check local regulations and product labels for restricted uses, especially near crops, water sources, or livestock areas. Always follow label directions and recommended protective gear.
Environment and site: For fences, roadsides, pastures, or forest edges, select products designed for outdoor, non-crop settings with soil and environmental considerations in mind.