Turn a Tree Stump Into a Planter - The Easy Way

4 Materials
$2
3 Hours
Easy

We have a huge collection of succulents and I'm always looking for new ways to showcase their unusual beauty. A few weeks ago while pottering around in the garden I stumbled over a tree stump. It was the perfect size and shape to turn into a planter for a few of our succulents that had outgrown their coconut wine glass homes.

The addition of the fairy swing made it extra special and I thought I'd share how we did it with you all. The great thing about using a tree stump as a planter is that it feeds the plants as the wood decays over time. To make the planter you'll need:

  • A tree stump 
  • Hole saw
  • Chisel
  • Drill and wood drill bits

For the fairy swing you need a popsicle stick, twine and a flexible branch for the arch.

Use a hole saw to cut into the stump to make the holes where the plants will go. When making the holes, leave at least a 2″ gap between the hole and the outer diameter of the tree stump. Drill a few smaller holes and the chisel the wood away. It makes it much easier to get the bits out.

Once the hole is deep and wide enough, it's time to make some drainage holes. Succulents are really easy to grow, and if they're looking sad, 9 times out of 10 it's either because they don't get enough light or their roots are drowning in water. So those drainage holes are real important. Use a drill to drill upwards at angle into the hole you chiselled away earlier.

Place a few small stones in the bottom of the hole, before adding the soil and plants.

To add a whimsical fairy swing, drill two holes in the top of the tree stump and insert the flexible branch to create an arch. For the swing, cut the popsicle stick to size and glue together as shown below.

Add rope ......

...... and hang in the arch icon

I love how it turned out, but I would be keen to hear what you think.

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Michelle Leslie
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4 of 39 comments
  • Lois Lois on Jul 20, 2019

    I have a small tree stump that I might just try this on.

    I love your idea of the Fairy swing too. How cute!

    Thank you for sharing.

  • Vanessa Vanessa on Jul 23, 2019

    Hi I’m from Georgia where you can have plenty of tree stumps around..I have one and was wondering jus what to do with it. I’m glad I came across your idea, I will definitely be doing this project!!!!!!!! Thanks

    • Michelle Leslie Michelle Leslie on Aug 28, 2019

      It's a pleasure Vanessa. I've seen pictures on Georgia and I believe it's a beautiful part of the world. Have fun making your planter

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