How to Kill Privet

Privet is a tough, hardy shrub that has a long history of usage as a hedge and garden border. French gardening design incorporates the use of privet hedges to define the boundaries along paths and between flower and herb beds. Privet hedges form dense, almost impenetrable barriers against wind and noise, and they can be trimmed to any shape or height. Once established, privet spreads by sending out roots, and it can be difficult to control. It should be planted in an area where its growth habits won't eventually become a problem. Killing privet requires some work.

Pruning shears
Loppers
Bow saw
Shovel
Hand saw
Wheelbarrow
Herbicide

Instructions

- 1
  Cut off as many of the privet's branches as possible. Start with pruning shears, and then use loppers on larger, more stubborn branches. Cut it down to as close to the ground as you can.
- 2
  Cut the privet's trunk as close to ground level as possible. Use a bow saw for this task.
- 3
  Expose the privet's roots. Shovel as much soil as you can from the privet's base. Then dig around the roots to expose them.
- 4
  Sever the roots from the trunk. Use a hand saw, and then cut as many roots as you can see with the pruning shears, or cut them with the end of the shovel.
- 5
  Pull the trunk, or stump, out of the hole. You may dispose of it along with all sections of roots and other debris.
- 6
  Spray herbicide on the entire root area and on roots you weren't able to remove. Follow the herbicide label's directions because the privet's age determines how simple it will be to kill.

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