How to Hollow Out a Tree Stump for Planter

Tree stumps can be a real eyesore in your backyard or garden. Instead of letting them rot away, why not turn them into a beautiful planter? A hollowed-out tree stump can add a rustic charm to your outdoor decor. Here’s how to do it:

Gear Up

First things first, make sure you have all the necessary tools to do the job. You’ll need a chainsaw, a drill with a spade bit, a reciprocating saw, and a chisel. Safety gear, including gloves, goggles, and ear muffs, is also a must. A measuring tape, marker, and leveler will come in handy too.

Choose the Right Tree Stump

Not all tree stumps are good candidates for a planter. Make sure you choose one that’s in good condition and has plenty of life left. Avoid stumps that are rotting, splitting or have deep cracks, as they may not hold up well as a planter.

Cut the Tree Stump

Start by cutting the tree stump to the desired height for your planter. You can use a chainsaw for this, but be careful not to cut too low. Leave enough space for the roots of the plants to grow.

Mark the Outline

Use a marker to draw the outline of your planter on the top of the stump. Make sure to keep the lines straight and even on all sides.

Drill Holes

Next, drill a series of holes inside the outline using a spade drill bit. The holes should be at least the length of the blade and as close to each other as possible without touching. This will create a perforated line to help you cut out the inside of the stump.

Cut the Outline with a Reciprocating Saw

Use a reciprocating saw to cut around the outline. Be sure to follow the line you marked precisely. Start with the blade perpendicular to the stump and switch to a diagonal angle as you go deeper. The diagonal angle will help to create a bevel on the inside edge of the planter.

Remove the Center of the Stump

After you’ve cut along the outline, it’s time to remove the center of the stump. Use a chainsaw to carefully cut down through the center of the stump, following the same diagonal angle. Then use a chisel to remove the remaining wood fibers until you have a smooth, even surface on the inside.

Clean it Up

Finally, use a broom to sweep out any sawdust or wood chips. You can also sand the inside of the planter to make it smoother if you’d like. Your newly hollowed-out tree stump planter is now ready to be filled with soil and your favorite plants!

Conclusion

Hollowing out a tree stump for a planter can be a fun project that adds a unique touch to your garden decor. Just be sure to exercise caution and take all necessary safety precautions while cutting and removing the tree stump. Follow these steps and you’ll have a beautiful planter in no time!