Removal & Replacement of Foundation Landscaping

Removal Methods

• The first step is to cut the existing shrubs to the ground with a pruning saw. If the trunks are thick at the base, cut smaller individual branches a little higher up on the shrub to make it easier to remove the plants. Next, the roots need to come out so the shrubs don't grow back. A shovel and mattock should be enough for smaller root balls, but you can rent a stump grinder if they are too difficult to remove by hand. Hire a professional to remove large trees near a foundation.

A New Design

• Foundation plantings can be a lot more than a row of identical shrubs in front of the house. That type of landscaping can work well if the facade of the house is symmetrical, but otherwise, it's nice to use some variety in the plantings. There is generally a slope from one side of the house to the other. On the low side, make the foundation plantings come out a bit into the yard in a bulbous shape. Plant a small, ornamental tree in the center of the area and surround it with perennials and ground covers.

Plant Choices

• If large trees shade the foundation of the house, try one of the Kurume hybrid azaleas (Azalea spp.). These evergreen azaleas can be kept to under 5 feet tall and grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 through 9. In a sunny area, the Fraser photinia (Photinia fraseri) is a tough and adaptable foundation shrub. The new growth on this photinia is bright red and it grows in USDA zones 8 and 9. For small, flowering trees, "Forest Pansy" redbud (Cercis canadensis "Forest Pansy") or flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) are elegant choices to accent the planting. They both grow in USDA zones 5 to 9 and can reach 20 to 30 feet tall.

Installing the New Plantings

• The soil around old foundation plantings is likely to be exhausted, so this is the perfect time to renew it. After removing all the existing plants, spread 2 to 3 inches of compost over the soil and till it in to a depth of 6 or 8 inches. Position the foundation shrubs according to the spacing recommendations on the label. Generally, they should be planted at least 4 or 5 feet away from the house to leave access to the water meter, hose faucets or any other important items along the foundation. Position the accent tree and any other plants. Step back and look at the arrangement of plants before you start digging. Adjust them as needed to create an appealing composition and then plant them. Spread 3 to 4 inches of mulch over the planting area afterwards and water deeply to get the plants off to a good start.