Gardeners are being urged to resist the temptation of tidying up their gardens, especially when it comes to a rotting tree stump. As the garden becomes cluttered with dead leaves, wilted

flowers, and broken branches, it might seem appealing to clear out the debris to maintain a neat outdoor space, reports The Express. However, experts advise against removing tree stumps,

highlighting their importance to garden health. Isabel Losada, author of "The Joyful Environmentalist," advocates for a less manicured approach: "Don't tidy up your

garden. If something dies - anything - leave it alone." She explains that insects play a crucial role in decomposition, which benefits both them and the soil. Saying: "Insects are

next time I'm in the woods." She cautions against taking wood from the woods, as it could harm the creatures living on it. "This would probably be illegal and might well kill

whatever was living on the rotting tree stump, though." She further advises letting dying trees complete their natural cycle without interference. Adding: "Better to have

decomposing wood in a garden. If you have a dying tree, let it die. Don't tidy it up." Additionally, for those with fruit trees, she recommends leaving fallen fruit on the ground

to provide a food source for butterflies like the red admiral and painted lady during late summer. Adding: "If you have fruit trees, leave the fallen apples, pears or plums on the

ground and in late summer butterflies such as red admiral and painted lady will feed on the juice. Basically, anything rotting is good news." This sentiment is echoed by the Royal

Horticultural Society who have advice for those considering keeping a tree stump in their garden. They mention: "In most cases, it is not necessary to remove a dead tree, and standing

dead wood is incredibly valuable to wildlife. "Before deciding to leave a dead tree in situ, it is advisable to have it assessed for stability and safety by a tree consultant. It may be

necessary to thin or lower the canopy or remove splayed or leaning branches to reduce the risk of them falling during high winds." "When shortening or removing limbs, aim to leave

a jagged cut as this better allows water and organic matter to collect, hastening decomposition and attracting wildlife. Periodically re-assess the tree to ensure it remains safe."

They even provide an aesthetic solution, "If you dislike the look of dead trees but would still like to encourage wildlife, consider hiring a 'chainsaw artist' to turn the

stump into a sculpture. Alternatively, plant a vigorous climber, like a rose or clematis, to climb up the tree and smother it in flowers."