What is the easiest way to remove juniper bushes?

  3 answers
  • Jan Clark Jan Clark on Feb 02, 2018

    I have done this and it is no fun. First off, protect yourself. Junipers are toxic and will give you a rash just rubbing up to them if you're sensitive. Depending on the size and type of your juniper, you'll need good pruners and a trenching shovel and regular wide shovel, maybe more. I use a lopper or pruner and cut back as much green as possible, leaving the trunk and a few thick branches. Then I start digging to find the roots with the trenching shovel. You may have to remove a bit of topsoil to get a good idea of what's there. Next, dig out the roots. If this is an established shrub, you can also cut the thinner roots with the lopper to free it up. Get as much exposed as you can. Loosen the trunk with a few good kicks or whacks with a sledgehammer. If it won't come out and you can't use a vehicle hookup to pull it, you may have to saw it off below the ground and use a stump killer. These guys are serious! Good luck.

  • RWLM RWLM on Feb 02, 2018

    I pruned them first really well; my husband dug & dug and eventually they die & disappear!