How To Get Rid Of Boxwood Shrubs

Getting rid of boxwood shrubs requires a combination of manual labor, the right tools, and some patience.
 
If you’re wondering how to get rid of boxwood shrubs that have overgrown your garden or become diseased, the process is very doable.
 
In this post, we’ll cover every method you need for getting rid of boxwood shrubs, from simple digging to chemical treatments.
 
We’ll also share tips to make removing boxwood shrubs easier and how to prevent regrowth.
 
Let’s jump straight into the steps to get rid of boxwood shrubs for good.
 

How to Get Rid of Boxwood Shrubs by Manual Removal

Manual removal is the most straightforward way to get rid of boxwood shrubs.
 
Here’s how to tackle this method step by step.
 

1. Assess the Size and Root Structure

Before you start digging, look at the shrub’s size and how deep the roots might go.
 
Boxwood shrubs have shallow, fibrous roots, so getting rid of boxwood shrubs that are small is easier.
 
Larger boxwood shrubs, however, may have a dense root ball that requires extra effort.
 
Knowing the width of the root zone helps you plan the removal spot.
 

2. Gather the Right Tools

You’ll need a sharp spade, a pruning saw, and a sturdy pair of loppers.
 
For getting rid of boxwood shrubs with thick stems, a mattock or axe can help break through the root ball.
 
Wear gloves and eye protection to stay safe while you work.
 
Having these tools ready speeds up the entire process of removing boxwood shrubs.
 

3. Cut Back the Shrub First

Use loppers or a saw to cut the boxwood down to stumps about 12 inches tall.
 
This gives you something to grip when you try to pull out the root system.
 
Cutting back the branches makes getting rid of boxwood shrubs less messy and easier to manage.
 
Dispose of the cuttings or shred them for mulch, depending on local rules.
 

4. Dig Around the Root Ball

Dig a trench around the shrub, about 6 to 12 inches away from the trunk.
 
Work your spade in a circle, cutting through roots as you go.
 
For large boxwood shrubs, leverage the spade to pry the root ball loose.
 
This method is effective for getting rid of boxwood shrubs without leaving large chunks behind.
 

5. Remove the Stump and Roots

Once the root ball is loosened, rock the stump back and forth to break any remaining roots.
 
Lift the stump out of the ground using the cut branches as handles or a shovel for leverage.
 
Shake off excess soil and fill the hole with fresh dirt.
 
Manual removal is the most eco-friendly way to get rid of boxwood shrubs.
 

Chemical Methods for Getting Rid of Boxwood Shrubs

If digging isn’t practical, chemicals can help you get rid of boxwood shrubs.
 
Use this method for large stumps or areas where manual removal would disturb too much soil.
 

1. Apply an Herbicide Directly to the Stump

Right after cutting the boxwood down to a stump, apply a glyphosate-based herbicide.
 
Paint the freshly cut surface generously within minutes of the cut.
 
This kills the root system and prevents regrowth, making getting rid of boxwood shrubs more permanent.
 
Always follow the product label for safety and dosage.
 

2. Use Foliar Spray for Small Shrubs

For young or small boxwood shrubs, you can spray the leaves with an herbicide.
 
Wait until the shrub is actively growing and the weather is calm to avoid drift.
 
Spray the leaves thoroughly until they are wet but not dripping.
 
This method works well when you need to get rid of boxwood shrubs in a large group.
 

3. Be Aware of Soil and Environmental Impact

Chemicals can persist in the soil and affect nearby plants.
 
If you’re getting rid of boxwood shrubs near vegetable gardens or water sources, use caution.
 
Consider using a specific herbicide designed for woody plants to minimize collateral damage.
 
Always read the label to ensure the product is suitable for getting rid of boxwood shrubs.
 

Preventing Regrowth After Getting Rid of Boxwood Shrubs

Even after you remove the main shrub, roots can sprout new growth.
 
Here’s how to ensure you’ve truly gotten rid of boxwood shrubs for good.
 

1. Remove Every Root Fragment

When digging, try to extract as many root pieces as possible.
 
Small root fragments left in the soil can regenerate, especially if the shrub was healthy.
 
Forgetting this step means you’ll be getting rid of boxwood shrubs again next season.
 
Run the soil through a garden sieve if you want to be extra thorough.
 

2. Apply a Layer of Mulch or Landscape Fabric

After filling the hole, cover the area with thick mulch or landscape fabric.
 
This blocks sunlight and makes it harder for any leftover root pieces to sprout.
 
Combine this with regular spot-checking to catch any new shoots early.
 
It’s a low-effort way to confirm you’ve successfully gotten rid of boxwood shrubs.
 

3. Plant a Competing Ground Cover

A dense ground cover or new shrub can outcompete any lingering boxwood roots.
 
Choose fast-growing native plants that will dominate the space quickly.
 
This natural approach reduces the chance that you’ll need to get rid of boxwood shrubs again.
 
Plus, it beautifies the area you just cleared.
 

So, How to Get Rid of Boxwood Shrubs?

Getting rid of boxwood shrubs is completely possible with manual digging, cutting, and sometimes chemicals.
 
The best method depends on the size of the shrubs and how much effort you want to invest.
 
For small to medium boxwood shrubs, manual removal with a spade and saw works perfectly.
 
For large or stubborn stumps, applying herbicide to the cut stump will help you get rid of boxwood shrubs permanently.
 
Always follow up by removing root remnants and monitoring for regrowth to keep them gone.
 
Now you have everything you need to tackle the project and finally get rid of boxwood shrubs in your garden.