A Fresh Start for Nature: Oak Tree Planted in Ash Stump 

In a creative twist on tree planting, a new oak tree has been planted within the hollowed stump of a dead ash tree. The Blue Tree Company carried out the work, hollowing, trimming, and chamfering  the old stump. This innovative approach recycles the old stump as a natural planter, meaning it offers protection from any creature that would happily have the sapling for its supper, without the need for an artificial cage or equivalent. The stump will even enrich the soil with the ash tree’s remaining nutrients, establishing a cyclical, hopeful future.

Q&A 

Q: Why not just dig a hole and plant the tree in the ground?
A: In essence, we have - the sapling is planted directly into the ground. The only difference with our young oak sapling is that is protected by the hollowed-out stump of the previous tree. If this was not the case, an artificial protective would be used instead.

Because the grounds of St Albans Cathedral are archeologically sensitive, by law, we cannot dig hole without Heritage England’s approval, which has been given. We have also received approval for the scheme from the Arboricultural Association, the Cathedral Archaeologist, and the Fabric Advisory Committee. 

Q: How will the sapling grow roots through a stump?
A: The oak sapling’s roots are not and will not be contained, as the ash’s stump is hollow at the bottom. The sapling is planted directly into the ground beneath the stump, with the ash stump merely acting as a protective ring around the oak sapling’s base. This approach mimics the natural process of nursery logs.

Q: Is this eco-friendly?
A: Absolutely. It reuses the existing stump, reduces heavy excavation, and mirrors natural regeneration. Dead wood provides nutrients, retains moisture, and supports beneficial fungi, giving the sapling a strong start.

Q: Why an oak instead of another ash?
A: Planting a different species reduces the risk of ash-specific pathogens and promotes biodiversity.

Thank you.