How to Remove and Replace Foundation Plantings

ModerateUsing hydraulic equipment simplifies the project, but it’s still hard work

About $250 per day for equipment rental, plus the cost of new plants

4 to 8 hours, depending on the size and number of plantings

In this video, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook enhances curb appeal with new plantings.

Removing and replacing foundation plantings

Remove the bucket from the front of the compact utility loader, and install the steel-tooth attachment.
Drive the compact utility loader up to one of the foundation shrubs.
Wrap a long, heavy chain around the shrub, then attach the chain to the steel teeth on the utility loader.
Use the loader to pull the shrub out of the ground.
Unhook the chain, then bang the shrub on the ground to knock excess soil from the root ball. Discard the shrub.
Continue to yank out shrubs with the compact utility loader.
Call the utility company to mark for underground cable and gas lines.
If a cable or line runs under or very close to a plant, don’t yank it out. Instead, use a chainsaw to cut the plant flush with the ground. Leave the stump in place.
Set new plants at least 24-inches from the foundation, and arrange them in a staggered pattern.
Dig holes for new plants using a pointed shovel.