When tearing out a hedge, you must observe the legal provisions. They specify the period in which such measures may be carried out. Go step by step and use the appropriate devices.
Hedges may not be removed at any time of the year
Legal background
Uprooting hedges is prohibited between March 1st and September 30th under the Federal Nature Conservation Act. The law is valid in all federal states and relates to open landscapes and settlement areas. The law for the protection of breeding and habitats of wild animals was enacted. It mainly serves to protect native birds whose breeding grounds have been severely affected or completely destroyed by massive interventions in nature. Shrubs are important habitats for birds, which should be protected in private gardens.
There may be special regulations within the federal states that affect pruning and the removal of hedges. Exceptions to the established closed seasons may apply to diseased shrubs or trees that pose a hazard to road traffic. The regulatory office provides information about any special regulations. Violation of these regulations is considered an administrative offense punishable by a fine.
Removal Instructions
Inform your neighbors about the forthcoming work so that there are no nasty surprises. Use appropriate protective clothing when tearing out. For the work you need a spade, branch and hedge shears (77.00 €) as well as a hand hatchet or a saw. Chainsaws and mini excavators make it easier to remove old bushes and large hedges.
1. Liberate tribe base
Remove the branches at the base of the trunk so that you can easily saw it off later. Hedge trimmers are suitable for smaller branches. Thicker branches are cut off with pruning shears.
2. Saw off logs
Cut the logs at the base with a hand hatchet or small saw. With larger shrubs, pay attention to the direction of fall so as not to damage anything.
3. Eliminate roots
Remove the entire root from the soil. Root pieces remaining in the ground can sprout again. Old hedges have built up an extensive root system, making this step difficult.
Tips for removing the roots:
- Expose roots with a spade
- cut small roots
- Loosen stem base by rocking back and forth
- pull out by hand or with a rope
Beech hedges develop stubborn and deep roots that often cannot be completely removed. These roots rot in the ground. Saw a cross in the root or punch small holes in the wood. Fill the voids with compost. This measure accelerates the rotting process. Replanting of the soil is possible after a few years.
4. Dispose of wood residues
Hedge trimmings are ideal for composting. Small cut branches and leaves serve as dry structural material in winter, which can be regularly mixed into the compost substrate. Thicker trunks provide firewood.
5. Follow-up
Fill in the resulting holes with stale compost. It supplies the soil with nutrients and prepares it for replanting.