Untended tree stumps and roots can become dangerous tripping hazards as well as breeding grounds for rodents and fungi, spreading damage to nearby trees, plants, and houses.
Professional services can use chemicals such as potassium nitrate to kill off any remaining roots, then you can repurpose the stump in one of several creative ways.
1. Table
Tree stump tables add character and rustic charm to any space, serving as side tables, nightstands, coffee tables or outdoor plant stands.
To achieve a natural-looking log stump table, opt for polyurethane wood sealant instead of stain. For smoother results, sand your stump using 120 and 220 grit sanding sponges before applying the sealant.
Check Craigslist or your local parks department for free tree stumps to use as tables; or use a chisel to remove bark if a prybar won't do.
2. Chair
If you have an old stump in your garden, why not transform it into a chair for relaxing or entertaining purposes? Simply carve away at it to form the chair seat, sides and decorative back; alternatively add an outdoor cushion for added softness on top!
This woodland throne provides the ideal space to read or relax with a cup of tea. Crafted by cutting a tree stump with a chainsaw and expertly shaping its branches into chair seats, sides, and backs - this piece was an absolute masterpiece to experience first-hand!
This charming gnome house is one of the many creative uses for a tree stump. A talented DIYer created this whimsical structure by framing roof supports and crafting rustic shingles - creating this delightful structure!
3. Birdhouse
Birdhouses generally fall into one of two categories: decorative structures that serve primarily for aesthetic reasons and homes intended to house birds themselves. Candi Meyer of Wild Birds Unlimited in Sacramento, Calif. regularly grapples with this dichotomy in her managerial position at Wild Birds Unlimited.
Utilizing a tree stump as the foundation of a birdhouse is an economical and eco-friendly solution to keeping costs low while helping preserve nature. Be mindful to avoid nailing it to avoid damaging its integrity.
Mount your birdhouse in an undisclosed area that is at least 100 yards away from feeders or birdbaths to deter predators and provide more privacy for brooding parents to raise their family. Doing this also camouflages its appearance and gives more room for parental involvement when raising young.
4. Garden Table
An obvious use for free tree stumps is as tables. For an earthy yet rustic aesthetic, check out this illuminated stump which also serves as a night light! Constructed from apricot wood which provides it with unique characteristics as well as mineral stains to complete its natural look and mineral stain stains for added depth and contrast.
Another option for protecting a stump from moisture and weather damage is applying a polyurethane wood stain with glossy finishes, such as those available at Home Depot or other hardware stores. This will protect it for an extended lifespan.
DIY enthusiasts, take note: you could try painting the stump in any color of your choice for an eye-catching and modern touch, such as yellow on natural wood. Or paint just 1/3 of it white for more subdued results.
5. Climbing Wall
Young climbers love climbing trees, and you can help them develop large motor skills on a carved out stump by adding plastic footholds and climbing grips with different heights for climbing challenges that keep kids engaged and active.
Stumps require sunlight for photosynthesizing, but you can deprive them of this essential resource by covering their roots with tarp and piling up organic waste around them. After approximately one year or more, their stump and suckers should die away.
This DIY method speeds up the natural decomposition process to eliminate stumps faster, cutting the time for them to decay from three to seven years to less than one. Furthermore, this helps minimize risk of re-sprouting from their remaining root system.
6. Gnome House
If you don't wish to remove your tree stump altogether, why not turn it into an adorable gnome house instead? This creative garden idea not only elevates your yard but also provides shelter to birds and small creatures within.
To build your gnome house, gather building materials like rocks, twigs, and moss. Although twine, hot glue, or any other man-made materials may provide extra structural support, its best to rely on natural elements when creating your fairy gnome house to attract magical visitors. Finally, decorate your fairy gnome house with wildflowers or mushrooms for added appeal!
7. Fairy House
Fairy houses are an engaging way to turn an ugly stump into something delightful, while also encouraging children to spend more time outside and away from electronics.
Simply stack twigs like Lincoln logs to form your fairy house. Leave an opening for access, add a door, reed or piece of bamboo as chimney material, cover with moss for thatched roof finish off with pathways of pebbles or stepping stones leading up to entrance of house and enjoy!
Fairy gardens have become the latest trend, and local garden centers and online retailers are cashing in. But creating your own fairy garden doesn't need to break the bank - make a whimsical fairy house out of an old tree stump instead!
8. Planter
Your old tree stump can make for an eye-catching focal point in your garden. Hollow it out and use it as a planter to grow flowers or vegetables!
For best results when creating a stump planter, start by clearing away all debris around it and making sure there are no pathogens lingering in the soil. Wearing safety goggles and gloves while making sure all potential pathogens have been addressed in advance, you should then dig a hole using either a mattock or an ax to create your planter.
Fill the container with compost or potting soil, plant your flowers of choice and ensure proper drainage holes have been drilled to avoid waterlogging and root rot. For an extra decorative touch, you could also consider adding a moss cover over the planting area.
9. Kids’ Playground
Establishing a tree stump playground can provide children with exercise and entertainment in an outdoor setting. Varying the heights of each stump provides children with different playing options that challenge their balance and coordination skills.
Use a tree stump as the backdrop for a game of Tic-Tac-Toe for an easy DIY project that will keep kids entertained all summer long. Chess or checker boards would also work just as well!
If your gardening projects require wood this year, why not reuse an eye-sore tree stump instead of purchasing materials? Repurposing tree stumps into yard art pieces will turn an eyesore into an eye-catching centerpiece!