Tree stumps are usually considered useless by most people, they end up being burned or simply left to rot on the ground. But if you look carefully, you can actually create a very nice planter out of any log piece of wood. This guide will show you how to turn a tree stump into a planter that is perfect for adding greenery to your yard and gardens.

Why should you turn your tree stump into a planter?

There are many reasons why you should turn your tree stump into a planter. For starters, it’s a great way to recycle an old piece of wood and give it new life.

Tree stumps can be used for more than just decoration. Most stumps can be easily turned into beautiful and useful planters for your garden. If you have a tree stump in your yard, it may be the perfect opportunity to create something useful and decorative.

It can also add some extra greenery to your yard or garden, which is always a good thing. Finally, tree stumps make great planters because they’re already at the perfect height for planting flowers or herbs.

What do you need for the planter?

 With the right tools, you can turn a tree stump into a unique planter that will last for many years. Work with your tools and the tree stump to create something beautiful and sturdy, and enjoy fruits and flowers for a long time.

In order to turn your tree stump into a planter, you’ll need the following supplies:

• Ax or Saw
• Hammer
• Chisel
• Plants
• Paint or Stain (optional)

How do I turn my tree stump into a planter?

Tree stumps in your landscape can be a reminder of a tree felled by disease, a storm or due to construction. In most cases, they are an eyesore that detracts from the look of your yard.

However, tree stumps can be turned into planters and add character to your garden or lawn. If you do not want to remove the stump or hire someone to do it for you, follow these steps to turn it into a planter.

Remove the top of the stump

Chop off the top portion of the stump using your axe. The top should be at least 2 inches thick to provide enough room for dirt and plants inside the planter. You don’t want to remove too much of the stump so that it becomes unstable and loses its strength.

Cut out the bottom

Using your chainsaw, cut out the bottom of your stump where you want to plant flowers or shrubs. You can cut a rectangular shape that goes around the entire bottom of the stump or you can cut out several smaller holes for multiple plants. Make sure each hole is about 3 inches deep so there is enough room for dirt and roots.

A very sharp axe or hatchet works well for making these cuts, but if you want them to look as good as possible, use a drawknife.

Fill with dirt.

Place all of your dirt inside the large hole in your stump planter and use your shovel to even it out. Place rocks on top if you want drainage, then add more dirt until it’s full inside each hole you cut for plants.

Add plants.

Choose your favorite flowers or herbs and plant them in the holes you cut in your stump planter. Make sure to water them regularly and enjoy your new garden addition.

Easy steps to turn the stump into a planter

1. The first step in turning a tree stump into a planter is to measure how large you want the planter to be. Once you have determined the size, use a chainsaw or ax to cut away any excess wood until the desired shape is achieved. Be careful not to cut too deep, as you will need some of the stump’s original surface area for stability. If your stump is particularly uneven, use a shovel or hatchet to even it out before moving on to the next step.
2. Now that the stump has been trimmed to size, it’s time to decide what kind of soil you want to use. For smaller planters, a simple potting mix will do. If you’re using a large stump, you may need to amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to ensure healthy plant growth. Use a shovel or trowel to create a hole in the center of the stump and then fill it with soil.
3. If your stump is particularly large, it may be necessary to add some extra support before planting anything in it. You can do this by creating a wooden frame around the perimeter of the stump or by stacking stones on either side. Once the soil has been added and the support is in place, it’s time to plant.
4. Be sure to choose plants that are appropriate for the climate and soil type of your area. If you’re not sure which plants to choose, consult a local nursery or gardening center. With a little planning and effort, you can turn an ugly tree stump into a beautiful planter that will add life and color to your garden.

Factors to consider when turning a stump into a planter:

• How big you want the planter to be: This will depend on the size of the stump and how much soil you want to put in it.
• What type of plant you want to grow:  Not all plants will thrive in a container with limited soil space. Make sure to research what types of plants would work well in a small planter before starting your project.
• What material will you use to make the planter: You can use plastic, metal, or concrete containers, or even an old tire. Just make sure that whatever material you choose is sturdy enough to hold up the weight of the soil and plantings.
• What kind of tree stump is it: Not all tree stumps are created equal. Some will be easier to work with than others.
• What level is the surface of the stump: If the stump is not level, it will be difficult to keep the soil in the planter from spilling out.
• How much time and effort are you willing to put into this project: Turning a stump into a planter can be a lot of work, but the end result is worth it.

Once you have considered these factors, you are ready to start turning your tree stump into a beautiful planter.

Maintenance tips for your new planter

Now that you have turned your tree stump into a planter, it is important to keep it in good condition. Here are some tips for maintaining your new planter:

• Keep the soil moist, but not wet.
• Fertilize the soil every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
• Water the plants regularly, but do not overwater.
• Remove any dead leaves or flowers as needed.
• Prune the plants to keep them in check.

Frequently Asked Questions

What plants can grow in a tree stump?

Any type of plant can grow in a tree stump, as long as it is suited to the climate and soil conditions.

Can I move my planter?

If the planter is small enough, you can move it to a new location. Be sure to water the plants thoroughly before moving them.

How do I keep the soil moist?

Watering the plants regularly is usually enough to keep the soil moist. If needed, you can use a moisture meter to check the soil moisture levels.

How deep should a tree stump planter be?

The depth of the planter will depend on the size of the tree stump and the type of plants you are growing. Typically, a depth of at least 12 inches is recommended.

Can I use this planter to grow vegetables?

Yes, you can use this planter to grow vegetables. Be sure to choose plants that are suited for your climate and soil conditions.

Can you put a raised bed over a tree stump?

You can put a raised bed over a tree stump, but it is not necessary. The raised bed will help to keep the soil moist and will provide extra room for growing plants.

What should I do if there is a hole in the planter?

If there is a hole in the planter, you can cover it with wire mesh or landscape fabric. This will help to prevent soil erosion and protect the roots of the plants.

Is it necessary to seal the wood?

No, it is not necessary to seal the wood. However, if you want to protect the wood from moisture and insects, you can seal it with a waterproofing agent.

Conclusion

Once complete, your new tree stump planter will not only add charm and rustic appeal to any outdoor space, but it’ll also be functional. Whether you want to fill it with small plants and shrubs, or keep larger potted plants inside, the wide variety of styles and designs make this one project that can be truly personalized.

Turning a tree stump into a planter is a good way to re-use wood in your yard. You’re not wasting something that would otherwise be thrown away, and you can make the most of its shape to create or add interest to your landscape. With a little maintenance, your new planter can last for years.