If the beech hedge is in the way or if a redesign of the garden is planned, the only option is often to remove the hedge. However, this can be quite time-consuming, especially if the beeches are already old and well established. The best way to proceed when removing a beech hedge.

To remove a beech hedge, it is first cut down to the roots

Steps to removing a beech hedge

  • Cut the beech down to the ground
  • dig up roots
  • pull out stumps
  • cause stumps left in the ground to rot

You only need to remove a beech hedge completely if you are planning to plant a new hedge or if you want to replant the area with trees and shrubs.

Do you really have to dig up the roots completely?

The roots of the beech must be dug up if other plants are to be planted at the site. They need space for their roots. If there is a walkway or if you plan to build a dry wall, you can leave the roots in the ground.

If the beech roots remain in the ground, they decompose over time and become humus. To speed up this process, make small criss-cross cuts in the roots with a saw, or punch holes in them with a suitable tool.

Fill the cracks with mature compost. Decay then occurs much more quickly and the site can be replanted after a few years if desired.

Cover soil above the roots

A good way to use the space of the beech hedge, even though the roots are still in the ground, is to cover the ground. Beeches do not like compacted soil and do not tolerate waterlogging.

Fill in the holes between the roots with sand and soil, and roll the soil firmly to create a level surface.

On this area you can, for example, build a dry wall or create a fence or walkway. This compacts the soil so that the remaining roots die and the beeches will never sprout again.

tips

Old and unsightly beech hedges can be brought back into shape through rejuvenation. This is worthwhile because beeches reach a very old age. Heavy pruning is required for rejuvenation, where you cut out all old shoots and trim the hedge altogether.

Category:

Garden design