The Drawbacks Of Planting A New Tree Near An Old Stump
By MARCO ROSSI
When considering whether to plant a new tree near an old stump, it's crucial to be aware of several drawbacks that can adversely affect the new tree's healthy growth.
The soil around the stump is often devoid of nutrients, as the previous tree likely used up these resources, making it challenging for a new tree to thrive in the same location.
Additionally, the soil may harbor pathogens or diseases from the old tree, posing a risk of infection to the new tree, especially if it belongs to the same species as the old one.
The old tree's extensive root system, which may still be present underground, can hinder the new tree's roots from properly establishing and expanding, thereby stunting its growth.
Thus, it's advised to give the old tree's roots a few years to decompose. If that isn't possible, plant the new tree at least 3 feet, but ideally 8 feet, from the stump.