How To Clear Large Shrubs

Removing large, overgrown shrubs can seem like a daunting task. But with the right tools and approach, you can quickly reclaim space and refresh your landscape. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step. We’re also giving tips from This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook, who demonstrates how to safely and effectively clear large shrubs in the clip above.

Common Reasons for Removing Large Shrubs

There are several reasons why homeowners might choose to remove large shrubs:

• Diseased or dying plants: Sickly shrubs can affect the look and health of your garden.
• Improved sunlight: Removing shrubs that block natural light from reaching your home or other plants.
• Landscape redesign: Making space for new plants or features.
• Overgrowth: Shrubs that have become too large for their location, interfering with other plants or functional features like walkways.
• Safety concerns: Eliminating shrubs that obstruct views or create hiding spots near entrances.
• Curb appeal: Clearing overgrown shrubs can tidy up your yard and improve its appearance.

Before You Remove Everything: Not every overgrown landscape requires a total tearout. On one This Old House project, a landscaping expert cautioned a homeowner eager to start fresh: “That’s what most homeowners think you need to do, but you don’t really need to do that. You have a lot of beautiful gems and plants in here.” He recommended saving established specimens like a 40- to 50-year-old hydrangea tree and transplanting hostas, noting that “by adding four or five new shrubs” and “really utilizing and saving what you have” can transform an overgrown yard without clearing it entirely.

Planning Shrub Removal

Before you start the physical task of shrub removal, take the time to plan out the process. Assess the size and number of shrubs you need to remove, note their proximity to structures or other plants, and determine the best time of year for removal:

• Assess the shrubs: Look at the shrub’s size, root spread, and health. Diseased or dead branches may make the shrub easier to remove. Also, check for roots near other plants or utilities. You may need to call 811 to check on utility lines before you dig.
• Timing: The best time to remove shrubs is during late fall or early spring when plants are dormant. This reduces stress on the surrounding garden and makes labor more manageable. Cooler weather also makes the physical labor more comfortable.
• Check for permits: Depending on local regulations, you may need a permit to remove certain shrubs, especially if they’re in a conservation area. Call your local municipality before starting.

Essential Tools for Clearing Large Shrubs

Having the right equipment will make the job safer and more efficient. Cook uses several tools when clearing large shrubs:

• Bypass loppers: For cutting smaller branches up to 1.5 inches in diameter.
• Chainsaw: To handle thicker branches and tree trunks.
• Garden mattock: To cut through roots and loosen the stump.
• Pointed shovel: For digging around the base of the shrub.
• Safety gear: Including sturdy shoes, long pants, long sleeves, heavy gloves, and eye and hearing protection.

Pro tip: Any time you need to use a chainsaw, Cook recommends wearing chainsaw chaps. About 36% of chainsaw injuries happen to the operator’s legs, and even thick denim provides no protection. Specially designed chaps will actually stop the saw blade.

Step-by-Step Process for Clearing Large Shrubs

Follow these steps to clear large shrubs from your yard:

1. Prepare the area: Clear the space around the shrub, removing any obstacles that might impede your work.
2. Trim smaller branches: Use bypass loppers to cut away smaller branches around the outer portion of the shrub. This will give you better access to the main structure of the plant.
3. Remove larger branches: With the chainsaw, carefully cut through thicker branches deep inside the shrub. Work your way inward, removing sections of the plant systematically as you go.
4. Cut the main trunk: Once you’ve cleared most of the branches, use the chainsaw to cut the main trunk as close to the ground as possible.
5. Dig around the stump: Use a pointed shovel to dig a trench around the base of the shrub, exposing the root system.
6. Cut the roots: Employ a garden mattock to cut through the roots at the base of the stump. The ax head of the mattock is particularly useful for severing larger roots.
7. Remove the stump: Once you’ve cut through most of the roots, use the mattock and shovel to pry and lift the stump out of the ground.
8. Clean up: Collect the cut branches and debris for disposal or composting.

Pro Tip: Roger Cook, This Old House landscape contractor, warns that the biggest mistake people make when digging out shrubs is “either digging the ball too big and when you go to move it it fall apart, or digging it too small when there’s not enough roots to make the plant live.” For a five-foot shrub, he recommends a root ball about 30 to 36 inches wide.

Safety Tips for Shrub Removal

Removing large shrubs can be physically demanding, so follow these tips for a safe and efficient job:

• Wear safety gear: Protect yourself with sturdy shoes, long pants, gloves, and eye protection. Chainsaws and sharp branches can cause serious injury if you’re not properly equipped.
• Keep the work area clean: Regularly clear away cut branches and debris to avoid tripping hazards.
• Chainsaw safety: Be aware of kickback, which happens when the tip of the chainsaw hits a hard object and the saw kicks back toward you. Always keep both hands on the saw, avoid cutting with the tip, and maintain stable footing.
• Take breaks: Removing large shrubs is hard work. Stay hydrated, take breaks, and avoid working while fatigued to prevent accidents.
• Consider professional help: If you have a large or complex job, or if the shrubs are near structures or utilities, we recommend hiring a professional landscaper or arborist.

Expert Insight: Roger, a This Old House landscape contractor, emphasizes the gravity of chainsaw safety: “Better than 30,000 chainsaw-related accidents a year in the US. And that’s why we have to be so concerned with safety with the saw, and it all starts with what you wear.” He recommends a hard hat with ear muffs, safety glasses with side shields, and a full face screen for added protection.

Disposing of Shrub Debris

After removing large shrubs, you’ll likely be left with a significant amount of plant material. Here are some options for disposing of the debris.

• Chipping: Rent a wood chipper to turn branches and stumps into mulch.
• Composting: You can compost smaller branches and leaves to use in your garden.
• Curbside pickup: Many municipalities offer yard waste collection services.
• Recycling centers: Some areas have facilities that accept yard waste for recycling.

Pro Tip: Roger Cook, This Old House landscape contractor, advises keeping chip piles manageable: “A layer less than 4 inches deep is no problem and will soon be absorbed as the forest plants grow through and falling leaves cover it. But anything thicker forms a mat that cannot be broken down quickly, and will probably remain visible for quite a while.” If chipping creates mounds, rake them out and spread them around. Roger also recommends leaving at least a 3-foot chip-free zone around tree trunks, and keeping chips away from the house.

Preparing the Site for New Planting After Shrub Removal

Once you’ve successfully removed the large shrubs, you may want to prepare the area for new plantings or landscaping features:

• Remove remaining roots: Dig out any leftover roots to prevent regrowth and make planting easier.
• Improve soil: Add compost or aged manure to improve the soil’s fertility, structure, and drainage. This will create a healthy environment for new plants.
• Level the area: Use a rake to level the ground. This is especially important if you’re planning to add hardscaping like patios or garden beds.
• Plan new plantings: Think about sunlight, drainage, and the mature size of your plants to avoid overcrowding. Choose plants that suit your climate and soil conditions.

Our Conclusion

With the right tools, techniques, and safety precautions, you can successfully remove overgrown shrubs and create a blank canvas for new garden designs. Remember to always prioritize safety and consider professional help for particularly large or complex removals.