10 Best Stump Killers

The Elixir Gardens Glyphosate weed killer is a strong and concentrated herbicide with 360 grams per litre of glyphosate, a well-known active ingredient for killing weeds right down to the root. It comes as a liquid spray in two 1-litre bottles, enough to cover a large area of up to 3332 square meters, making it cost-effective for treating big surfaces like patios, driveways, and decking. You need to dilute it before use, so it’s not ready to spray straight from the bottle, which adds a small step to the application process. The product works gradually; you might start seeing weed death in about a week, but some tougher weeds or stumps could take up to four weeks to completely die off. This means it’s not an instant solution but reliable with patience. It’s designed for outdoor hard surfaces and works well in those settings, but it’s not specifically marketed for direct stump grinding or wood removal.

Regarding safety, glyphosate is effective but has raised environmental and health concerns, so it’s important to use the included gloves and follow instructions carefully to minimize risks. This herbicide serves as a strong, easy-to-apply weed killer that covers large areas and can handle tough weeds over time, though it may be less suited for those needing immediate stump removal or a quicker effect.

The Roundup Tree Stump Weedkiller, Super Concentrate 250 ml, is designed to effectively eliminate unwanted vegetation, such as ivy, knotweed, saplings, brambles, and nettles. This product is particularly potent, capable of killing up to 16 tree stumps, which makes it a strong choice for those tackling significant weed problems. The use of ferrous sulphate as an active ingredient suggests it’s effective in penetrating and killing the roots, ensuring that weeds do not regrow. The inclusion of a reusable pipette is a thoughtful addition for precision application, especially useful when dealing with stubborn weeds like Japanese knotweed.

In terms of application, this product is a liquid, which can be easier to apply than powders or granular forms, allowing for more controlled distribution. However, users should be mindful of the concentration, as it is a super concentrate, requiring careful handling to avoid over-application. Safety and environmental impact are addressed by the fact that it degrades in the soil through microbial action, leaving no harmful residue. This would appeal to environmentally conscious gardeners who want effective results without long-term damage to their garden ecosystem.

While the product is highly rated by users, with a 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 5,700 ratings, potential users should still be cautious about proper application to avoid harming unintended plants or the surrounding environment. Its liquid volume of 250 ml makes it a suitable choice for moderate to large gardens, although for extensive areas, multiple bottles might be necessary. This weedkiller seems well-suited for those looking to tackle tough, recurring weed issues with a reliable and environmentally considerate product.

The Roundup Tree Stump & Root Killer is a liquid herbicide designed to kill up to 16 tree stumps, along with tough weeds like brambles, nettles, and Japanese knotweed. Its active ingredient works by being absorbed through freshly cut surfaces and leaves, moving through the entire plant to target roots and prevent regrowth. You apply it directly to freshly cut stumps or leaves, which makes it quite straightforward if you follow the instructions carefully. It is effective against both coniferous and deciduous trees, making it versatile for different types of stumps.

The product’s action is not instantaneous—it may take some time for the stumps to fully die back, so patience is required. In terms of safety, because it is a non-selective weedkiller, care must be taken to avoid contact with plants you want to keep, and it should be used responsibly to minimize environmental impact. The 250ml bottle covers a moderate area, enough for small to medium garden jobs.

Users generally rate it well for effectiveness and ease of use, but if you have a larger area or need a faster result, you might need a bigger quantity or a different product. This stump killer suits gardeners dealing with tough, stubborn stumps and woody weeds who want a targeted solution without complicated steps.