wood ash for stump removal

[JIL]

how does this work and how long does it take and what are the procedures? Thanks JIL

[Cabin Fever]

I have never heard of this. It would seem that the only way the stump would eventually "disappear" is through rotting (ie, decomposition by bacteria and other microorganisms). Wood ash is highly alkaline (pH > 11.5) and would be an effective bactericide is used at 100% strength....thus allowing the stump to be "preserved" rather than being decomposed.

[JIL]

this was by Shrek: *Wood ash is a source of potassium hydroxide which is basic lye. Although not as easy to gauge as crystaline lye, its useful as soap ingriedients , drain opener if you produce it strong enough , a fertilizer amendment in small quantities for soil not acidic enough , stump removal, etc.* on another page that is why I was asking, I sure could use a stump remover before spring. Thanks JIL