Bird Bath

If you've recently lost a tree to storm damage, you now have the problem of an unsightly stump. A tree stump birdbath is a good alternative to removing the stump.

Materials List:
* Selection of plants that thrive in direct sunlight (ex. ornamental grasses, coreopsis)
* Top of a birdbath (bowl section)

Tools List:
* chain saw to Remove stump
* drill with screwdriver bit
* spade or shovel
* wheel barrow
* garden hose for watering
* chain saw protective equipment (eye and ear protection, gloves, chaps, steel-toed boots, helmet if needed)

Steps to Make a Tree Trunk Birdbath
1. Remove any shade plants. If you had any "shade plants" growing beneath your tree, you will need to transplant them immediately. Simply dig up the root balls and move them to a shady location. Be sure to water them thoroughly after you replant them.

2. Cut off the tree stump. Use your chainsaw to cut off the stump at the desired height for the birdbath. It is important that the top of the stump be level. You may want to make the initial cut a few inches higher than the desired height, to allow for some leveling cuts.

3. Install Bird BathInstall the birdbath. Most birdbath bowls will have a round indention underneath for a base to insert. You will need to cut a scrap piece of wood (or branch) to match the diameter of the indention. Attach this piece of wood to the center of the stump and place your birdbath bowl over it. This will help make the bowl secure.

4. Plant your new plants. After your birdbath is installed and level, plant your new plants around the base of the birdbath. When planting around a tree stump, it is a good idea to dig all of your planting holes first. Often times, thick surface roots will not allow holes to be dug. Digging the holes first will make correct spacing possible, without having to replant.