What to Plant in a Tree Stump

Many homeowners are faced with the dilemma of what to do with old tree stumps in their yards. Some choose to have them removed, while others opt to keep them as a natural feature or even turn them into garden focal points. If you fall into the latter category, you're probably wondering what you can plant in a tree stump to give it new life. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Flowers

One of the easiest ways to transform a tree stump is to plant an array of colorful flowers around it. This not only adds beauty to your yard but also helps camouflage the stump. Some flowers that thrive in partial or full shade, which is ideal for tree stumps, include impatiens, begonias, and hostas. Alternatively, you can plant hardy perennials like sedum, geraniums, or coral bells that don't require much maintenance and can tolerate various soil types.

2. Herbs and Vegetables

If you're looking to make your tree stump functional as well as ornamental, consider planting herbs or vegetables in it. This works particularly well if the stump is located near your kitchen or outdoor grill, making it easy to harvest fresh ingredients. You can either plant seedlings in the stump or create a raised bed around it using logs or stone. Some herbs that are easy to grow and thrive in partial shade include mint, parsley, and chives. As for vegetables, consider planting lettuce, radishes, or carrots.

3. Shrubs and Small Trees

If you want to create a mini-garden around your tree stump, consider planting shrubs or small trees. This not only hides the stump but also adds height and texture to your landscape. Some shrubs that work well in partial shade include azaleas, hydrangeas, and rhododendrons. If you have enough space, consider planting a small ornamental tree like a magnolia, dogwood, or Japanese maple. Just make sure the stump is deep enough to support the root system.

4. Ground Cover

If you prefer a low-maintenance option, you can always plant ground cover around your tree stump. This not only hides the stump but also helps prevent erosion and weeds. Some ground covers that work well in partial shade include creeping thyme, moss, and ajuga. These plants require minimal watering and can withstand foot traffic, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like pathways and driveways.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many options for what to plant in a tree stump, depending on your preferences and needs. Whether you choose to plant flowers, herbs, shrubs, or ground cover, be sure to prepare the stump by removing any dead wood or debris and adding fertile soil to ensure optimal growth. With a little creativity and patience, you can turn an eyesore into a beautiful and functional part of your landscape.