Living stump
A living stump is created when a live tree is cut, burned, eaten, or infected, causing its cambium to die above the root system.
Living stumps are generally characterized as having a thin outer layer of living cells that surround a hollow central cavity.
Living stumps can survive for several years by
- using excess carbon reserves,
- transfer of nutrients from the roots of neighbouring trees, often aided by mycorrhiza or
- root grafting to the root system of living trees.
Stumps can grow a callus tissue over its cross section which prolongs longevity of the stump by protecting it from infection and insect damage. A living stump which is capable of producing sprouts or cuttings is known as a stool, and is used in the coppicing method of woodland management.
Common examples
- Pinus strobus
- Castanea dentata
- Tsuga spp.
- Pseudotsuga menziesii
- ''Cedrus spp.''