Eliminating a tree stump

In 2005 I had to give the chop to an apricot tree which had been planted in a very limited space and was growing too high giving problems to the owner-occupiers of the condo where I live.

I have noticed since last year that a strange white fungus is now appering where the stump is still embedded in the soil.

I believe this is nature's way of slowly 'eating' up the stump, but I'd like to know if it's dangerous for the plants that I've planted near this dying stump. Also is there any way of hurrying up the process?

Thanks.

Tree stump

Reply from Marissa Zoppellini

Hi Ann, yes fungi are one of natures waste disposers, there will also be many other critters feeding off it and playing their part in the wildlife food chain. You could speed up the process by fragmenting the stump, ie cutting into it to make more access points for organisms. With regard to whether there is a danger to other plants, this would depend on what fungus this was, although it is likely that it is one that only feeds on dead material and is hence not a problem. If you post up a photo, it may be possible to identify it and any risk it poses. All the best, Marissa

Eliminating a tree stump

Reply from Pam B

Thanks Marissa! At the moment it's dormant and no funghus is visible but when I can see some I'll snap it for the Forum!
Pam
PS Regards to all Forum users from sunny Sicily where I live!