removal of ficus benjamina

Dazza · White Belt Joined: 24 Apr 2005 Posts: 2

Hi all in the back yard I have a 35>40ft 'Baby Ben' which I need to remove as it has started to attack the sewage main and lift all the pavers in the entertainment area.

What I need to know is that if I cut the roots around the stump base will they die of or will they grow back to form new shoots.

Any help would be much appreciated.

Stymie · Posted: Sun Apr 24, 2005 7:58 pm Post subject: Re: removal of ficus benjamina

I note from your flag that you are in the antipodes.
This tree is evidently very much 'at home' in its present position. You don't make it plain whether you want to kill it or save it. If the latter, try root pruning with a sharp spade in a ring round it at least a foot away from the base, reduce the top growth substantially and try lifting it next spring if it shows signs of new growth then. There'll be plenty of time for you to make a very large box to accomodate it before then.

Dazza · White Belt Joined: 24 Apr 2005 Posts: 2

Hello I would like to remove it completely get rid of it. Because of the location of the sewer main I can not replant it anywhere in the yard or I will end up with the same problem I have now.

Dick · Posted: Mon Apr 25, 2005 2:37 am Post subject: Re: removal of ficus benjamina

If you just cut around the base of the tree's roots, then you are missing the tap root which is the deepest and most difficult to cut short of removing the entire tree.

I would simply cut the tree down with a chain saw and then check around any nearby renatl places to see if they have a "stump remover" to rent. Or better yet, check you local tree surgeons or loggers to see if they will remove the stump once you fell the tree.