Keep the Stump from Re-growing

• Cut the stump as close to the ground as possible and keep in mind that the roots can still survive. Applying rock salt will kill the stump and the roots, preventing future growth and landscape problems. Rock salt is commonly sold as ice-cream salt or water-softening salt. Also remember that the larger the stump, the longer it will take for the rock salt to work. Be patient.
  
  

Proper Preparation Speeds the Process

• Rock salt, a natural chemical compound, works with nature. You can help it work faster by drilling several large holes into the stump. Use one of your largest bits. Drill a few of the holes straight down into the stump and then drill several holes at an angle until they intersect the first holes. This creates a webbed network inside the stump so the rock salt can move freely and distribute evenly.
  
  

Repeat the Salt Application

• Once you have prepared the holes, fill them with the rock salt. You can spread a little dirt over the top of the stump to help keep the salt inside the holes in inclement weather, but do not pack the dirt. You want to be able to re-fill the holes with salt if needed. Some stumps rot more slowly than others, depending on the health of the tree you removed and the hardness of the wood. Also, once the stump has decayed and you remove the remains, you might need to flush the soil to lessen the effect the salt residue might have on future planting in the area.