When you have to cut a beloved tree down in your yard, there are so many ways to upcycle the pieces to keep the memories alive in your house and outside.
Ideas for inside your home
Create a one-of-a-kind handrail
Make a clock
Cupcake stand for a special occasion
Indoor or outdoor tree stump coffee table
Build a rustic Christmas tree
Candle holders
Houseplant holder
A cat tree
A heart to hang on the wall
Another version of a heart to hang on the wall
A unique pencil holder
Cutting board
Branch wall art
Build a garden arbor
A home for beneficial bugs
A garden walkway
Tree stump planter
Create garden edging
Rustic fencing
If you can leave a dead tree standing safely, it will be used by wildlife for nesting, perching, and as a food source. Dead trees can be an environment for moss and fungi. Birds like woodpeckers will create nest holes in them. When they leave, the holes are ready-made nesting sites for other bird species, such as chickadees, titmice, nuthatches, wrens and even owls. Tree cavities provide winter cover from harsh weather and a place to hide from predators. Dead trees are components of an ecosystem that will eventually create rich soil, that can be used in your garden.
An easy way to use up dead wood is chip it into mulch or cut it up for firewood.
References:
50 Ways to Upcycle Tree Branches and Logs - Living Vintage (livingvintageco.com)
6 Ways to Upcycle Dead Trees (arbordayblog.org)
10 Clever Things To Do With Fallen Tree Branches and Tree Trunks (urnabios.com)
Drop that Saw and Leave the Dead Trees Standing! | Habitat Corridors
WHAT WE DO
WHO WE ARE
Join the Tree Society newsletter
Get monthly articles on the latest in the tree care industry, curated by people deeply passionate about environmental stewardship.
WHAT WE DO
RESOURCES
Join the Tree Society newsletter
Get monthly articles on the latest in the tree care industry, curated by people deeply passionate about nature. Plus, outdoor adventures and DIY projects.