10 Best Stump Killers 2025 in the United States

The Roundup Poison Ivy Plus Tough Brush Killer₂ is designed to tackle tough weeds like poison ivy, poison oak, and kudzu, making it suitable for homeowners dealing with stubborn brush and invasive plants. Its active ingredient is a strong herbicide that shows visible effects within hours and becomes rainproof in just 30 minutes, which means it works quickly and reliably even if the weather isn’t ideal.

The product is applied as a spray using the included Comfort Wand, a reusable, one-touch precision tool that helps you avoid bending over, making the application easier and more comfortable. This wand is handy for targeting weeds close to trees, fences, or buildings without damaging the surroundings. After treatment, you can replant in the treated area within 1 to 30 days, depending on the instructions, which is useful for maintaining your yard or garden.

Due to its strong chemicals, users should be cautious about environmental impact and avoid spraying near desirable plants or water sources. It covers about 300 square feet per gallon, which is decent but may require purchasing more for larger areas. Weighing over 9 pounds, it’s somewhat heavy to carry around for long periods. This product provides an effective and user-friendly solution for homeowners needing a fast-acting treatment for persistent weeds and brush, although mindful use is important to protect the environment and nearby plants.

The Fertilome Brush Killer Stump Killer is a liquid product designed specifically to tackle stubborn stumps and unwanted woody plants, making it a good choice for homeowners dealing with overgrown yards or gardens. One of its key strengths is the active ingredient, triclopyr, which is effective at killing a variety of stumps and vines when applied properly. You can directly apply it to freshly cut stumps using a brush, or for other plants, it can be diluted in water and sprayed onto leaves, offering a versatile application method.

Speed of action is another plus; for best results, you need to apply it within 45 minutes of cutting the stump, which aids in quicker effectiveness. However, you’ll need to keep in mind that you have to provide your own brush for stump application, as it is not included with the product, which could be inconvenient for some users.

On the environmental front, while triclopyr is known for being effective, there are always considerations when using chemical herbicides, so it’s important to follow the label instructions to minimize any adverse effects on surrounding plants and wildlife. Ease of use is moderate; the product requires some preparation, such as mixing when dealing with brush, and users will need basic gardening tools. If you are someone who prefers straightforward, minimal-effort solutions, this product might ask for a bit more involvement than you’d like.

The Dow AgroSciences RTU548 Tordon RTU Herbicide is a ready-to-use product designed specifically for killing cut stumps in non-cropland areas like fence lines, roadsides, and forest settings. Its active ingredient is effective in controlling unwanted tree regrowth, making it a practical choice for those managing natural landscapes or property borders. One of its standout features is its ease of use; simply apply the liquid directly to the cut surface of the stump, which is particularly beneficial for users who may not have extensive gardening or landscaping experience. The product provides coverage for approximately 50 to 100 cut stumps, depending on their size, which adds to its efficiency in tackling larger areas of unwanted vegetation.

On the plus side, it boasts a solid customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from nearly 4,000 reviews, suggesting that many users have found success with it. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The product is not suitable for all types of vegetation, so users should verify that it meets their specific needs before purchase. Moreover, while the liquid form makes application straightforward, it may require multiple applications for particularly stubborn or large stumps, which could be a downside for some users looking for a one-time solution. Lastly, while it is designed to target non-crop areas, care should be taken to avoid unintentional damage to desirable plants nearby, emphasizing the need for careful application.

The Dow AgroSciences RTU548 Tordon RTU Herbicide is a reliable option for homeowners and land managers needing an effective stump killer, particularly where ease of use and targeted application are priorities.