BEST way to dig out a shrub you want removed P1 Pro DIY tip Earthwise landscape designer Orlando Central Florida #landscaping
Digging out a bunch of shrubs and plants you want removed before installing new plant material can seem intimidating. But not if you have a plan and a good shovel! For your project, be sure to invest a couple of extra dollars in a solid metal handle. I would avoid fiberglass or other cheaper handles as they will more easily break when you are prying up and chopping through roots. Then, you’ll want to sharpen the edge so you cut through those roots with ease (As of 5/2025 I could not find a Kobalt shovel like the one featured in the video. I would recommend checking out Wolverine. Finding a good shovel is worth a little extra effort).
You can do a search for "Wolverine SL600 all steel shovel" to find one online (This is my shovel of choice for prep). The method featured in this video will work for any size shrub or even a small tree. The bigger the shrub or tree the farther away you’ll need to be from the base.
IMPORTANT: Make sure you call 811 and have the underground utilities marked before you dig. They need about 3 days. The main thing to understand is where you communications cable is. It is not usually deep and if it is in your dig area then it will be somewhere at dig depth. Also, make sure to note where you water main goes in. 811 does not mark this. Dig easy because you’ll be able to tell the difference between a PVC pipe and a root. This goes the same for your irrigation. Be sure to run the system and check for any breaks caused by digging. Repairs are easily handled when you are proactive.
