How to Plant Flowers in an Old Tree Stump

After a tree dies, it's an opportunity to turn that old stump into a beautiful, blooming masterpiece. Planting flowers in an old tree stump can be a challenging but rewarding project. Here are some tips on how to get started.

Step 1: Prepare the Stump

Start by clearing out any debris or rotting wood from the stump. Use a saw or ax to cut away any protruding branches or roots. If the stump is still rooted in the ground, use a shovel to dig around it before attempting to remove any remaining roots. Use sandpaper or a power sander to smooth out the edges of the stump and create a flat surface area.

Step 2: Drill Holes

Using a drill, make holes in the top of the stump. These holes will serve as drainage for the flowers planted in them. Drill the holes about two inches deep and roughly one inch apart. Make sure the holes are scattered evenly across the top of the stump to allow for proper water distribution.

Step 3: Add Soil

Adding soil or a mix of soil and compost will provide the necessary nutrients for your flowers to thrive. Fill the stump with the soil mixture until it's level with the top of the stump. Make sure to pack the soil tightly to prevent any settling or shifting when watering.

Step 4: Choose Your Flowers

Choose flowers that are suitable for the amount of sunlight and shade the stump will receive. Pansies, petunias, and impatiens are great choices for partial shade, while marigolds and zinnias prefer full sun. Consider the height and size of the flowers when selecting which types to use. For a fuller look, choose flowers that will bloom at different times throughout the season.

Step 5: Plant Your Flowers

Before planting the flowers, make sure to loosen the soil in the holes to prepare for planting. Dig a hole for each flower and place it into the hole at the same depth as it was in the nursery pot. Cover the root ball with more soil and gently pack it in. Once all of the flowers are planted, water them thoroughly to help them settle in.

Step 6: Care for Your Flowers

Your flowers will need regular watering and fertilization throughout the growing season. Be sure to provide enough water to the soil, but don't let it become soggy as this can cause the roots to rot. A slow-release fertilizer can be added during planting, or a liquid fertilizer can be applied every two weeks following planting.

With some patience and hard work, planting flowers in an old tree stump can transform a once unsightly sight into a beautiful garden feature. So, go ahead and give it a try!