Difficulty Digging Up Oleander Roots
Oleanders can be unpopular trees in certain situations because of their poisonous sap, invasive nature and root system that's difficult to dig up. You must remove all of the oleander's roots to prevent the plant from sprouting back up again and forming a new tree. Because of the vigorous nature of the roots, you may have to try several methods to completely eradicate the plant. Does this Spark an idea?
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Oleander Roots
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Oleanders are nonnative flowering shrubs that produce extensive roots for obtaining soil moisture in arid environments. In fact, the oleander's roots reach to a depth that can disturb utility lines and sewers. These drought-resistant shrubs reach heights of 20 feet when they have not been pruned back. Their root systems extend well past their drip line. The drip line is the area directly underneath the outermost branches. You must dig up the area beyond the drip line to try to get the entire root system.
Foliage Problems
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The oleander's dense foliage presents problems for anyone trying to remove the plant. Also, contact with the foliage may result in a rash or allergic reaction for some people. To get a good idea of the placement of the root crown, you must cut the side branches of the oleander. Leaving some of the main trunk of the tree offers some leverage when digging up the root system. Cut the oleander's trunk three to four feet from the ground.
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Digging the Trench
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You should start digging the trench just past the drip line at a depth of 12 to 24 inches to remove feeder roots — surface roots — and larger perennial roots. Using a sharp trowel helps cut through root growth when digging the trench. However, oleanders have roots that can grow to 4 inches in diameter. To make the job easier for cutting through these roots, use a saw. Pull shallow roots with a grub hoe.
Removing the Oleander
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Push the oleander up through the soil, using a shovel or landscape bar. Landscape bars help you use your own weight to push the root crown through the soil. It helps if you have someone else there to cut away any stubborn roots that are preventing the plant from being pushed up. Once the oleander is removed, sift through the hole and remove any stray roots. Fill the hole with dirt. By planting another type of vegetation in the area, you help prevent the oleander from sprouting from any remaining roots.
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References
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