I just learned that potassium nitrate stump remover works by boosting microbial activity instead of breaking down the wood through chemical means. Since I usually have different fertilizers on hand, like straight calcium nitrate, I'm wondering if that could work as a substitute for stump removal in a pinch. Is there any reason why potassium nitrate is preferred over other fertilizers?
3 Answers
Keep in mind that potassium nitrate is likely more soluble than calcium nitrate, and potassium is vital for fungi metabolism, more so than calcium.
I can attest that fire ants are a surprisingly effective natural stump remover!
Absolutely, any nitrate fertilizer should do the trick! The goal is to promote the growth of bacteria and fungi that will help decompose the stump.
That's what I thought too! I’m really hoping someone can jump in with deeper insights about why potassium nitrate is commonly chosen.
Haha, as fun as that sounds, bringing in an invasive species could lead to more problems than it solves.