How to Dig Up Oleanders

Oleanders are pleasant looking but highly toxic plants.

Though often used as a desirable landscaping shrub, oleanders are toxic and many homeowners with pets or small children do not want them in their yard. Oleanders can be harder to dig up than a lot of other shrubs because of their exceptionally large root systems. Fortunately, the characteristically long reaching roots do not need to be removed to kill an oleander plant, as long as the more compact root crown is removed.

Things You'll Need

• Loppers
• Spade
• Ax
• Protective gear

Instructions

1. Call your local utility marking company if you are unaware of where your gas, electric and water lines are on your property. The company will come and put flags down where lines are running beneath your property so that you do not accidentally break anything. This service is provided in most areas and is usually free.

2. Outline a wide circle around your oleander plant. If you have multiple oleander plants, in a hedge for example, you will want to create a separate circle around each plant. The circle diameter should be at least twice the diameter of the plant's canopy.

3. Cut the branches of the oleander as low to the ground as possible using your loppers. This will make digging out the root ball significantly easier.

4. Dig out the circumference of the circle outline using your shovel. Dig as straight down as possible, trying not to arch inward towards the plant. You will want to dig down at least 18 inches before beginning to dig inwards. Use the ax when necessary to cut through especially thick roots.

5. Dig inward toward the center of the plant with your shovel once you have reached a depth of 18 inches all around the plant and have cut through all roots. Once you get the shovel under the root crown, try to lever it out by pushing down on your shovel handle. The ax may again be necessary to cut large roots under the plant.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear clothing protecting your skin if possible as oleander plants irritate the skin of many individuals

• As an alternative to digging, glyphosphate herbicide may be used to kill oleanders.

• Though the extensive root system of the oleander tree does not need to be removed completely in order to kill the shrub, the long thick roots may cause future landscaping hardships as they are hard to remove.

References

• Ryan's Removals: Phoenix Oleander Removal
• Floridata: Nerium Oleander