Q: We recently removed a very large pine tree. The remaining stump is very large. I have heard that you can use old tree stumps as planters. Could I plant a Nellie Stevens Holly inside the stump?

A: I can’t envision a stump large enough to contain enough soil to make a big ‘Nellie Stevens’ holly happy. The interior of the stump would need to be at least six feet in diameter. If you set your sights smaller, any number of shrubs, perennials or annuals could be grown in the hollow stump. Consider Encore azalea, Purple Diamond loropetalum, coneflower, Shasta daisy or nasturtium. The pine wood will deteriorate in a few years but you could have a very attractive container in the meantime.