Gorgeous Natural Yard Decor
A tree stump is an eyesore for some, but for those with imagination
and an eye for design, it provides numerous possibilities. Why spend
hundreds of dollars having it ground away when it can be used to enhance
the landscape? Stumps makes fantastic containers for holding flowers
and foliage. Unlike something portable, they will not tip over or blow
away. Turn a tree stump into a planter. You can beautify your yard with
something that was once a thriving part of the landscape, and it can be
just as eye-catching and useful.
Necessary Supplies
To create a natural planter you will need a suitable tree stump. It
does not have to be completely solid, but it should not be rotting away
around the edges. You will also need a mattock, a drill and a ½" drill
bit, pebbles for drainage and rich organic soil. Pea gravel other fine
stones are ideal. They will allow water to drain away from tender roots.
Procedure
If the tree stump is rotted in the center, you might be able to simply
scoop it out with a spade. If it is solid, use the pick end of the
mattock to break up and loosen the center. Try to leave a four-inch
border of solid wood around it.
After breaking up the center of
the stump with the pick, scoop it out with the broad end of the tool. It
will take a little work, but the finished results will make it well
worth the effort. Try to make it at least eight inches deep to
accommodate the stones and soil.
Next, use a drill and a ½"
diameter bit to create holes that will help to facilitate drainage. They
will give the water more places to go beneath the stones. Drill two or
three-inch deep holes about every four inches along the bottom.
Fill the bottom of the tree stump planter with gravel. It should be two
to three inches deep. Top the stones with well-worked soil, and be sure
to leave about three inches of space below the top edge. After adding
the soil, it will be ready to fill with plants of your choice.
Planting Tips
Consider low-growing annual flowers that will thrive in the location.
Perennials will come back year after year, but they bloom in cycles.
Annuals will provide color and beauty throughout spring, summer and
early fall. Plants and seeds that are sold in your area will flourish
with proper care, but it is important to consider your hardiness zone
when shopping online.
In addition to choosing low-growing
flowers that will not require support, buy miniature vines to surround
the flowering plants. Create a ring of gorgeous vinca vines or another
mini variety. They will beautifully drape over the sides of the tree
stump, and they will visually bring it back to life.
