If you’ve recently had a tree removed or inherited an old stump on your property, you might be wondering what to do with it. While some homeowners opt to grind it down or wait years for it to decompose, there’s another option—one that’s both beautiful and environmentally friendly: turn it into a natural planter.
So what can you plant in a tree stump?
In New Jersey, with its four distinct seasons and USDA Hardiness Zones 6b to 7a, you have plenty of choices. From flowering annuals to perennial favorites, herbs, and native wildflowers, an old stump can be transformed into a unique garden feature that blends into the landscape and adds character to your yard.
Why Plant in a Tree Stump?
A hollowed-out stump makes an excellent planter for several reasons:
• Great drainage: The natural structure helps prevent root rot.
• Rustic charm: Adds natural beauty and texture to your yard.
• Sustainable: Makes use of what’s already there—no need for plastic pots or additional materials.
• Creative opportunity: You can personalize it with different plants, themes, or even turn it into a fairy garden.
In short, it’s an eye-catching and eco-friendly way to give an old stump a second life.
Preparing the Stump for Planting
Before we dive into what to plant, here’s how to prep your stump so your plants can thrive.
1. Hollow It Out
You’ll need to carve out the center of the stump, leaving a few inches of wall around the edges. Aim for a planting depth of about 6–12 inches, depending on what you plan to grow.
2. Drill Drainage Holes
Use a drill to create a few small holes at the bottom so water doesn’t collect and cause rot or mold.
3. Add a Gravel Base
Start with a layer of small stones or gravel at the bottom. This improves drainage and keeps your soil from becoming compacted.
4. Fill with Potting Soil
Use high-quality potting mix suited to your plant type—flowering plants may need a richer mix, while succulents or herbs benefit from well-drained, looser soils.
Now that your stump is ready, let’s talk about what to plant in it.
Best Plants for Tree Stump Planters in New Jersey
New Jersey’s climate offers a wide range of possibilities. Here are our favorite plant types broken down by category:
1. Flowering Annuals
Perfect for adding seasonal color and changing things up each year. These grow quickly and bloom all summer long.
• Petunias – Thrive in full sun and come in countless colors.
• Impatiens – Great for shady spots with moist soil.
• Begonias – Tolerate both sun and shade; compact and cheerful.
• Marigolds – Bright, pest-resistant, and very low-maintenance.
These annuals are perfect if your stump is in a sunny or partly sunny area and you want a burst of color from spring through fall.
2. Hardy Perennials
Want something that comes back year after year? Try:
• Hostas – Excellent for shady or dappled areas.
• Black-eyed Susans – Iconic summer bloomers that attract pollinators.
• Coneflowers (Echinacea) – Hardy, drought-tolerant, and great for wildlife.
• Coral Bells (Heuchera) – Variegated foliage and tiny flowers; great for partial shade.
• Sedum – Tolerates dry conditions and offers unique textures.
These options are suited for New Jersey winters and will continue to fill out your stump planter every year with minimal care.
3. Culinary Herbs
If your stump is near the kitchen or patio, why not grow herbs you can actually use?
• Thyme – Fragrant and hardy; forms a nice mat.
• Chives – Tolerates cooler temps and comes back in spring.
• Oregano – A spreading herb that does well in full sun.
• Mint – Caution: it spreads quickly, so the stump keeps it nicely contained.
Many herbs prefer full sun, so check the light conditions around your stump before planting.
4. Shade-Loving Ferns & Groundcovers
Got a stump in a shady or wooded part of your yard? Try these:
• Ostrich Fern or Lady Fern – Add softness and texture.
• Hens and Chicks (Sempervivum) – Hardy succulents that form rosettes.
• Ajuga – A groundcover with purple-blue flowers that thrives in shade.
• Lamb’s Ear – Silvery leaves with a velvety feel; great for dry spots.
These plants are low maintenance and often drought-tolerant once established.
5. Native Wildflowers
Attract pollinators and support your local ecosystem.
• Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) – A type of milkweed that monarch butterflies love.
• Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) – Delicate flowers that thrive in part shade.
• Blue False Indigo (Baptisia australis) – Beautiful spikes of blue flowers.
• Goldenrod – Often misunderstood, but excellent for bees and butterflies.
Native plants are adapted to New Jersey’s soil and weather and typically require less maintenance than non-native species. Want to dive deeper into native plant options? Check out this helpful guide from the New Jersey Native Plant Society.
Creative Tips
Want to go beyond the basic planter? Here are some fun twists:
• Create a multi-tiered display using large and small plants.
• Paint or carve the stump for added visual interest.
• Add solar lights or fairy lights around the base.
• Incorporate moss or vines to enhance the natural look.
Some homeowners even build mini fairy gardens in stumps with little figurines and paths—perfect if you have kids (or just love whimsy).
When Not to Plant in a Stump
There are a few scenarios where stump planting might not be the best idea:
• The stump is still alive and trying to sprout. (In this case, it might need full removal.)
• The wood is too decayed and crumbling—planting won’t last long.
• You’re dealing with termites or fungal infections—better to grind the stump and replant in soil.
Not sure whether your stump is usable? Reach out to a local pro for a quick assessment.
Need Help Bringing Your Landscape Back to Life?
If you’re in Scotch Plains or anywhere in Union County, NJ, and you’re looking to repurpose an old tree stump, we’d love to help. Whether you need stump removal, stump carving, or landscape design ideas, the team at Caffrey Tree & Landscape has the experience and creativity to transform your outdoor space.
👉 Contact us today to schedule a consultation or get a quote.
Final Thoughts
A tree stump doesn’t have to be an eyesore or a reminder of what used to be. With a little effort and imagination, it can become the centerpiece of your garden—bursting with color, texture, and life. So next time you wonder “what can you plant in a tree stump?”, think of it as nature’s flowerpot, ready for its next chapter.