A firethorn hedge forms an almost insurmountable barrier against intruders and at the same time is an attractive property boundary. In addition, the firethorn offers birds a safe nesting place and is a valuable contribution to the protection of our feathered friends. However, what if the hedge is to give way one day?

removal of the trees

Since the firethorn forms deep, strong and widely branched roots, it is not easy to completely remove the shrub.

  • First pinch and saw off most of the branches.
  • Hit the stump several times from all sides with a mitten.
  • Expose roots and dig up rootstocks over a large area.
  • Cut off the main roots with a sharp knife or secateurs.
  • Pull out the tree stump and root remains and fill the resulting hole with topsoil.

Chemicals

Before application, you need to drill deep holes in the tree stump. The chemical preparations release oxygen when heated, so that the tree stump can burn without external oxygen supply. The substances available in specialist shops are mixed with a fuel such as petroleum or diesel and introduced into the rootstock through the holes. Once ignited, the stump burns out almost completely. If this first treatment is not enough, it can be repeated.

biological decomposition

In this case, too, open the rootstock in several places and cut deeply into the wood in a lattice pattern. The tree stump is covered with a thick layer of mature compost to which they have added compost accelerators. The microorganisms set in motion a natural rotting process that gradually destroys the stump.

Remove firmly rooted plants

Sometimes it is not possible to dig up a firethorn hedge that has been allowed to grow in its place for many years. The roots have formed a broad network and are strongly intertwined. Sitting deep in the ground, they are difficult to dig up and difficult to cut through. Even the old peasant tactic of wrapping a rope around the tree stump to pull the stump out of the ground with a tractor often fails here. In these cases, it is advisable to seek professional help.

tips and tricks

Many mushrooms grow on rotting logs. It is worth inoculating the old rootstock with mushroom cultures, from which edible tree mushrooms will grow. This is significantly more environmentally friendly than chemical agents and just as promising.

Category:

Herbs