At Fredericton Botanic Garden, instead of traditional tree planting, three ash trees have been creatively displayed upside down in an installation known as the Stumpery. This unique exhibit has gained popularity among visitors for photo opportunities and selfies, despite its origins as a lighthearted idea.
These ash trees were part of a group of 14 that had to be removed from the garden due to infestation by the emerald ash borer, an invasive insect harmful to trees. Linda Stephenson, the executive director of the garden, explained that the decision to repurpose the trees was to ensure they were not wasted.
A team of volunteers, Eldon Toner and Matt Forlot, familiar with stumperies, took the initiative to create this innovative display. Toner, in a playful move, suggested turning the trees upside down, which added an unexpected twist to the project.
The Stumpery has garnered more attention than anticipated, becoming a focal point for visitors and sparking discussions about its meaning and purpose. Some see it as a symbol of giving diseased trees a new lease on life, while others interpret it as an artistic statement with varied meanings for different viewers.
Despite its whimsical appearance, the Stumpery addresses a serious issue – the threat posed by the emerald ash borer to trees in the region. With millions of trees lost to this destructive insect in Canada, the future of ash trees in the garden remains uncertain.
Plans are underway to further enhance the Stumpery by incorporating flowers and vines around the trees. Stephenson encourages people to visit the garden and experience the installation firsthand, highlighting the ongoing challenge of managing ash trees affected by the beetle.
As the garden continues to evolve, the Stumpery stands as a symbol of creativity and resilience in the face of environmental challenges. Its transformation reflects the garden’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in preserving its natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.
