What Are the Benefits of Driftwood?

Aquariums

• Using driftwood in your aquarium provides several benefits: The driftwood itself adds to the aesthetic appeal of your tank's decor, the driftwood gives fish and other aquarium species a place to hide and lay eggs and the driftwood lowers the pH level of your tank's water. Keep in mind that certain species of fish require a low pH level, while other species require a high pH level; research your particular species of fish before adding driftwood. Driftwood also is useful if you wish to grow living plants in your aquarium as many species of moss will attach to it. Purchase sterilized driftwood from a local aquarium store or sterilize natural driftwood by boiling it for several hours before you place it in your tank.

Beaches

• Large pieces of driftwood, such as logs or tree stumps, are vital to maintaining a healthy beach. Driftwood helps to prevent beach soil from eroding while at the same time providing shelter to numerous species of marine birds and crustaceans. In addition, driftwood decays over time, allowing nutrients to soak into the beach's soil and stimulate the growth of marine plants. It is important to note that while large pieces of driftwood are extremely beneficial to beaches and overabundance of small pieces of driftwood can clutter the beach, inhibiting the growth of plants and animals.

Landscaping

• Use driftwood in landscaping adds aesthetic appeal while also benefiting your garden. Driftwood comes in many shapes an sizes, making it a viable option for any size of garden. In addition, untreated driftwood decomposes quickly in rich soil, benefiting the plants around it and providing a home for garden-friendly insects. Do not use driftwood in gardens connected to your home or other wooden structures, however, as it can draw unwanted bugs as well. Driftwood also can be used as a stepping stone for new plants: A little soil in a hole in a piece of driftwood is an ideal place to plant a new flower or shrub as the nutrients from the decaying driftwood bolster the new plant.

Building and Art Projects

• Driftwood, tempered by sun and sea, is a sturdy and unique medium with which to build. Large driftwood logs can be used for poles or pillars when building outdoor gazebos, trellises or sheds. Driftwood stumps can be fashioned into outdoor furniture, such as chairs or tables. Driftwood found on a beach is generally sterile, which limits the growth of mold and fungi. The use of driftwood is not limited to large projects; the unusual shape of driftwood lends to many creative endeavors. Driftwood can be used for sculptures, window frames and indoor furniture. Building and art projects should be sealed after they are completed to prevent decay or erosion.