Buzz
Removing a bush can be a bit of a physical challenge, but it's a task well within reach for any homeowner. If you'd rather not resort to cutting, consider using a pickup truck to extract it. Alternatively, you can dismantle the bush with pruning tools and then dig around to access the roots. Once completed, you'll have a clear patch of ground ready for your desired use.
Steps to Follow
Utilizing a Pickup Truck
Park the truck close to the bush. If you don't own a pickup truck, enlist the help of a friend who does. The truck's power isn't crucial, but make sure it has a towing hitch. Never attempt this task with a vehicle smaller than a truck. If you don't have access to a truck, renting one is an option, although it may not be preferable due to potential complications.
Secure a towing chain around the base of the bush. Towing chains are built to handle cars, making them robust enough for bushes. Wrap the chain around the bottom of the bush's trunk as tightly as possible to the ground. Loop the end of the chain to secure it in place.
Attach the chain to the truck's towing hitch. Keep the chain close to the ground while doing so. Always connect the chain to the hitch rather than a weaker part of the truck, such as the bumper.
Clear the area of people and pets. Ensure children and pets are inside the house. Ask any bystanders to stand back in case the chain snaps or there's splintering. It's essential for everyone's safety.
Gradually move the truck forward. Gently press the gas pedal and move forward. Stop once the chain is taut, giving the bush a slight pull, which may not uproot it completely at first.
Alternate between reversing and driving forward until the bush is dislodged. Reverse the truck to slacken the chain, then drive forward again to tug at the bush. Repeat this process until the bush is pulled from the ground.
Removing Bushes Manually
Wear gloves and long-sleeved attire. Prioritize skin protection before starting. Cover yourself with a long-sleeved shirt and jeans to prevent scratches. Equip gardening gloves for added hand protection.
Trim smaller branches using hedge clippers. Position the clippers around the branches and snip them off. Begin from the outer edges, gradually reducing the bush's size. Usually, cutting the thicker branches in the center removes the smaller ones as well.
- For a swift job, opt for bypass loppers. Alternatively, use a reciprocating saw, pruning saw, or hand saw.
Cut thicker branches near the trunk. Identify the central branches and trim them as close to the trunk as possible.
- For larger bushes, a chainsaw is suitable. Ensure safety by wearing protective gear, including a helmet, goggles, ear defenders, and safety mitts. Avoid letting the chainsaw touch the ground.
Use a saw to cut the stump close to the ground. Position the saw horizontally and gradually cut through the stump. Trim the trunk to eliminate any remaining branches obstructing your path. Cutting the trunk lower reduces weight from the remaining part of the bush.
- Avoid using a chainsaw near the ground to prevent kickback.
- If you're not removing the roots, this step suffices. Utilize a sander to grind down the stump and apply weed killer to prevent sprouting and mold formation.
Create a trench around the bush to expose its roots. Utilize a pointed garden shovel for optimal results. Dig as close to the trunk as feasible, removing dirt from all sides until the roots are visible.
Sever roots using a saw or loppers. A pruning saw or reciprocating saw effortlessly cuts through most roots. Alternatively, employ a hand saw or loppers. For smaller bushes, a pointed shovel can also suffice. Cut through all visible roots.
- An axe or mattock are also effective for chopping roots.
Excavate until a shovel's blade fits under the stump. Continue digging vertically in one area until the bush's bottom becomes visible just below the soil surface. Slide the shovel underneath.
Raise the stump using a shovel. Apply downward pressure on the shovel's handle to elevate the stump. Initially, it may not come out entirely due to remaining attached roots. Persist in digging and cutting roots to free the stump.
- Enlist another person to assist by leveraging the stump with the shovel while you pull upwards. This facilitates better visibility and access to remaining roots.
Fill the hole with soil using the shovel. Remove branches and other plant debris. Use the shovel to refill and level the hole formerly occupied by the bush.
Reuse the bush parts. Some waste management services accept bundled branches and other plant materials. Contact them or review your service agreement for details. If they don't accept them, place the pieces in a yard waste bag and take them to the nearest recycling center.
- Refer to your town's website for recycling guidelines and nearby centers accepting organic yard waste. Alternatively, consider composting for your other plants.
Utilizing a Hydraulic Jack
Trim the tree branches with clippers. Start by removing the smaller branches from the outer areas of the tree. Alternatively, use a saw or other suitable tools for this task.
Excavate a trench around the bush. Utilize a pointed or garden shovel to expose the roots of the bush. Dig around the entire perimeter of the bush to uncover the roots on all sides.
Sever the roots using an axe. Use an axe or mattock to cut the exposed roots. If unavailable, a pointed shovel or saw may suffice for this task.
Position plywood boards on both sides of the bush. Place 2 or 3 flat boards on each side of the bush. These boards provide additional height for the jack to lift the bush.
Install a jack stand on one side of the bush. Jack stands are available at automotive parts stores. Position it on one of the stacks of plywood boards with the lifting arm facing upward.
- If you don't have a jack stand, stack 2 or 3 concrete blocks on top of the plywood instead.
Position the jack on the opposite side of the bush. Place the jack on top of the other stack of plywood. Ensure you use a sturdy jack, such as a long, flat hydraulic jack. This type of jack is more capable of supporting weight and typically features a mechanical arm that can be cranked while standing behind it.
- Scissor jacks, commonly included with cars, are not recommended. They are less robust and intended solely for lifting specific types of vehicles.
Place a wooden beam across the jack and jack stand. A standard size is a 4 in × 6 in (10 cm × 15 cm) beam, although a longer one may be necessary for larger bushes. Position one end on the jack and the other on the jack stand.
Secure the stump to the beam using a towing chain. Verify that the towing chain is undamaged. If it is, obtain a replacement from an automotive parts store. Fasten one end of the chain to the beam, then extend it down to the stump. Wrap it around the stump and loop the end to tighten it securely.
Wear safety goggles and clear the surrounding area. Since you'll be applying significant pressure to the beam and chain, wear eye protection in case of recoil. Ensure that any children, pets, or spectators are at a safe distance or indoors.
Operate the jack to elevate it. Turn the mechanical arm on the jack. As the arm rises, it will lift the beam and consequently the stump. If the stump doesn't lift adequately, lower the jack and insert several wooden blocks beneath the beam on the jack's arm.
Cut through the exposed roots. Retrieve the axe or other cutting tool you used previously. Lower the jack as far as possible to reduce tension on the chain, then sever the remaining roots. Once finished, maneuver the stump out of the hole.
Helpful Tips
Materials Needed
Using a Pickup Truck
- Truck
- Towing chain
- Towing hitch
Removing Bushes by Hand
- Protective clothing
- Hedge clippers
- Shovel
- Saw
- Disposal bags
Trimming to the Roots
- Clippers
- Saw
- Weed killer
Using a Hydraulic Jack
- Shovel
- Hydraulic jack
- Jack stand or concrete blocks
- Plywood boards
- Wood beam
- Towing chain
- Saw
