Removal of very old big box bush

Lizzie27

Has anybody any idea what the root system would be like please? It is part of a hedge (was 7ft high- now 5ft) with some branches about 6ft wide and possibly 30 years old or older. I'd like to dig it out (although there's limited space in which to do this) as a friend has given me an euronymus which matches the others in the hedge. Box is supposed to be shallow rooting I know, but something this old? I can just about get two hands around the trunk. Thanks

Obelixx

No idea about how extensive the roots may be but I suggest your cut it all down to about 2' high and then remove any remaining side branches.  Give it a good soak and then use the stump to wiggle it back and forth to loosen it.  You'll soon find out if it has a large root system and whether you need an axe or saw to break them off. 

If it resists, just keep wiggling till it gives up.  With no foliage above there'll be nothing to feed the roots and they'll weaken over the next couple of months so you may need to be patient.

Meanwhile, keep the euonymus happy in a pot until your have its new home ready.

Lizzie27

Thanks @Obelixx, that's what I had in mind but I'll need my OH or the hedgeman to come back and do it for me. My days of swinging an axe or sawing anything are over I'm afraid.  I'm finding it very frustrating.

Obelixx

It's good for OH to feel useful.

Lizzie27

Very true @Obelixx