A dead tree in your yard can be a hazard. This is why it is important to cut down trees before wind and decay brings it down. The only problem is that a tree stump from a removed tree can be an unattractive obstacle. Fortunately, there many decorative options that can turn an old stump into a useful and beautiful addition to the yard.
Create a Planter
Making a planter out of an old stump is one of the easiest and simplest ways to deal with it. All you have to do is hollow out the stump after it is completely dead. Remove the wood down to a 10 inch depth, or deep enough to sink a flower pot inside, so you know there is enough room for plant roots. You have the choice of filling the stump with soil and planting in it directly, or planting inside of pots that you can switch in and out of the stump as often as desired. Annuals flowers, like petunias, pansies, and marigolds, are a good choice for a stump planter since perennials may not survive winter with the limited rooting area.
Make Some Furniture
There are several different ways to turn an old stump into a beautiful piece of garden furniture. The easiest way is to simply bolt a round tabletop, possibly scavenged from a second-hand source, directly to the stump to create an instant table. Add a couple of patio chairs and you have a nice area for garden tea or enjoying a picnic lunch. Another way to turn a stump into furniture is to have a seat carved out of it. Depending on the size of the stump, this can be a seat for one or a small garden bench.
Turn It Into Art
Stump carving is an actual art form and trade. You can usually ask around at garden centers or tree removal companies to find a local stump artist. These artists can turn your stump into something amazing. Bears, fairy houses, and animal or human faces are just a few options. You can work with the artist to create something that means something to you, or to simply create a unique design that works well with your outdoor décor.
If none of these ideas appeal to you, or if the stump is placed in an area where keeping it won't work, professional tree stump removal can make short work of the problem. Tree professionals can grind down a stump so the remainder is deep enough below the soil that you can easily plant grass over it, or they can dig it out and remove it completely.
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