Distance

• You may plant a new tree as close as 3 feet to a removed tree stump. Keep in mind that existing underground roots limit the new tree's root system and reduce the amount of nutrients available. Place a new tree 6 to 8 feet from the original tree to increase the tree's chance of survival.
  
  

Preparation

• Grind the stump as deeply as possible before planting a new tree. As the old roots or sawdust decomposes, it interferes with the nitrogen in the soil. This limits the amount of nitrogen, a necessary nutrient, available to the new tree. Watch your new tree for small, stunted leaves and stress. Use an appropriate fertilizer to offset the nitrogen loss.
  
  

Disease Concerns

• Diseases may remain present in the soil for years. If the old tree died from an infection, plant a resistant tree or use a different species rather than replacing the dead tree with an identical cultivar.