Usage of Tree Stumps

Tree stumps make for interesting furniture.

Some gardeners insist on removing tree stumps to make their yards more appealing. But resourceful gardeners recognize the value of the stump as a food resource, while others see the stump as a challenging project for their woodworking skills.

Wildlife

The decaying wood of tree stumps offers wildlife habitat for a variety of animals and birds. The wood also acts as a resource for tiny organisms that contribute to a healthy ecosystem in your yard by creating nutrients and helpful fungi used to make your soil healthier.

Mushrooms

Stumps make excellent mushroom-growing operations. After drilling holes into your stump, you can add plugs of mushroom spores to the holes. The spores grow into full-fledged mushrooms you can eat or cook. Not only do you create tasty foods; the mushrooms also help speed up natural decay of the stump.

Outdoor Furniture

Some resourceful gardeners turn their tree stumps into appealing rustic furniture. The stump may make a great base for an outdoor table if left in place -- just attach a round wooden top to form the table. Or you can cut a slab off the stump, attach it to a base, then use your new furniture indoors or outside.

References

• US Forest Service; Ecosystem Processes Related to Wood Decay; Bruce G. Marcot; February 2003
• Gardens Alive: Tree Stump Troubles
• Mother Earth News: Rustic Home Décor: Tree Stump Table

Resources

• Sunset: Before and After: Budget-friendly