Question
I have an oak tree with a sizable knothole at the bottom.  I was wondering if I could use it as a plant container for creeping phlyox or some other flowery spreading plant.

Thanks,
Heather

Answer
Heather,

I wouldn't.  By keeping it wet with soil or potting media could set up the conditions for a pathogen to enter the tree.

So you are asking what the difference is because of the hole already there.  The tree has compartmentalized the hole and isolated it from the rest of the tree.

Good luck

Gary