Established hedges occasionally need to be removed for a bevy of reasons. They can be in poor condition from long periods of neglect, at the end of their lifespan or simply because they no longer mesh with the landscaping plan at the site. A combination of aggressive pruning and excavation can make quick work of most hedging plants. For very large and mature hedging plants or long expanses of hedging, mechanical excavation equipment will make the job much easier and faster.
Shear down the top foliage of the hedging plants to a few inches above the soil line. Collect and carry away the foliage so that you have a clear view of the root area and space to work.