Lilac bushes are a popular ornamental shrub known for their beautiful spring blooms and sweet fragrance However, they can sometimes outgrow their space or need removing for other landscaping plans. Removing an established lilac bush is not always straightforward. Their extensive root systems and suckering tendencies make them difficult to eradicate This article provides a complete guide to effectively removing lilac bushes.
Why Remove Lilac Bushes?
There are several reasons you may need to remove a lilac bush
-
The bush has become overgrown and unruly. Lilacs can reach 8-15 feet tall and wide. Without regular pruning, they can take over.
-
You want to redesign or change your landscaping Lilacs may obstruct other plans
-
The bush is diseased or pest infested. It’s better to remove it than risk spreading issues.
-
You simply don’t care for lilacs anymore or the spot is unsuitable.
Whatever the reason, removing a stubborn lilac entirely is crucial to prevent regrowth.
When to Remove Lilac Bushes
The best time for removing lilacs is late fall or early spring when the bush is dormant. The ground is easier to dig and the lack of foliage aids access to the base and roots. Avoid mid-summer as sap flow is high, raising the chances of regrowth.
Removing Lilac Bushes Above Ground
Start by cutting the entire bush back to a stump. Use loppers for smaller stems and a pruning saw or chainsaw for thicker wood. Wear safety gear like gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection when operating power tools.
Next, use a strong glyphosate herbicide on the freshly cut stump. This is absorbed by the roots to kill the plant. Within minutes of cutting it out, paint it right on the flat top. As soon as the leaves wilt and turn brown, you’ll be able to see the results.
An alternative for a chemical-free approach is grinding down the stump with a power stump grinder. Go 4-6 inches below ground level to get below the root crown. Wear proper eye and ear protection as this creates debris.
In either case, monitor the stump for several weeks after treatment. Remove any new shoots as soon as they appear to prevent regrowth.
Removing Lilac Roots
Eliminating the roots is critical for permanent removal. Lilacs have a network of spreading side roots that are close to the ground’s surface. They also sucker readily, sending up new shoots. Any remnants left behind regrow into new bushes. Here are two ways to remove the roots:
Digging out
For younger bushes, manually dig out the root system. Use a spade or shovel to loosen the dirt around the stump in a 2-3 foot diameter. Then dig under and sever the lateral roots. Keep widening the hole until you can lever and lift out the main taproot. Dispose of all root pieces and disturbed soil offsite.
Mechanical removal
Mature lilac roots can extend over 10 feet away from the base. Removing them requires mechanized assistance. Options include:
-
Using a tractor or truck to pull roots out with chains once exposed.
-
Renting a stump grinder to chew up roots to 12 inches deep.
-
Hiring an excavator to dig down and scoop out the entire root system.
No matter the method, inspect the site after to remove every last root piece. Even tiny remnants can regrow if left behind.
Follow-up Care After Removing Lilac Bushes
Keep a close eye out for regrowth and quickly cut off any suckers or sprouts that show up. Also, fix and replenish the soil because digging too much hurts its health. Add two to four inches of compost or manure and replant as you like.
You can get rid of unwanted lilac bushes if you put in some work and don’t give up. Cutting back the growth, treating the stump, removing all root parts completely, and being careful afterward are the most important steps. With this complete guide, you’ll be lilac-free in no time!.