Removing trees from a landscape leaves unused space behind. You can use that space to create a new feature, one that will boost the aesthetic appeal of your property. Whether you decide to remove the stump or not, there are many ways to use the space left behind after tree removal.
After tree removal, you can use the additional space in the following ways.
After Tree Stump Removal
If you decide to grind out or remove your tree's stump, using the freed-up space will require more work.
1. Plant a New Tree
If you'd like to replace your old tree with a new one, you can do so after you have removed or ground out the stump. But don't plant your new tree on the site of your old tree. Even after stump grinding, some of the old root systems remain in the ground. These decomposing roots may interfere with the roots of your new tree as it grows.
The soil around the area of your former tree may also lack nutrients after tree and stump removal. So, choose an adjacent spot to plant your new tree, or wait about one year to plant a new sapling. This should be enough time for the soil to become rich in the nutrients necessary to sustain a sapling.
2. Plant Some Grass
You could plant some grass in the spot where you removed both your tree and your stump. But before you do that, make sure you empty the hole by removing the wood chips from the stump grinding. Then fill the hole with a mixture of nitrogen fertilizer, compost, and topsoil. Since the ground will likely settle to a point lower than the surrounding land, overfill the hole slightly.
Once you have filled the hole, sprinkle grass seed over the area, and then add a layer of hay on top. The hay will keep the seeds warm and moist, which aids growth and protects the seeds from birds, strong winds, and the sun.
3. Build a Raised Flower Bed
If you'd like to add some flowers to your yard, you can add a raised flower bed to the spot where your tree was. Remove the wood chips from the hole, and then add a layer of newspaper to the bottom of the hole to encourage worms but discourage weeds. Then add topsoil and compost. Finally, add whatever material you wish as edging, such as rocks, before you plant your flowers.
With the Tree Stump
If you decide to keep your tree's stump, you don't have to leave the stump as an eyesore in your yard. You can put a tree stump to use in several ways.
4. Create a Colorful Feature in a Children's Play Area
If you already have children or grandchildren, and you want a play area where your tree used to be, you can incorporate the stump into the play area. For instance, you can paint the stump, turn the stump into a table for kid's activities, or turn the stump into a fairytale scene, with gnomes, fairies, and little houses.
5. Turn the Stump into a Planter
You can turn your stump into a planter as well. To create a planter, make a six to eight-inch hole in the stump while leaving a 3-inch border around the edge of the stump. Drill some drainage holes that exit the stump from the sides, and then add a layer of soil on top of a layer of gravel. You will then have a beautiful and natural planter for your yard.
6. Turn the Stump into a Pedestal
Stumps make great pedestals because they help ornaments and other features to stand out in your yard due to the extra height they provide. For instance, a tree stump can make a great pedestal for a water feature or large plant pot.
Do you have a tree that you need to remove from your property? Then call McClain's Tree Experts today. We can
remove both large and medium trees. And we can grind the stump out for you too so you can use the space for something else.
