[Arid_gardener] Question from Home-Hort WWW page

[Dick]

Rick, does your neighbor agree to trashing the hedge?  If so and with his 
help, I would take it out in stages and getting rid of the debris from each 
stage before starting the next. Physical removal is the only way, I believe. 
If it has been there for 50 years, it may require a D-8 cat to remove those 
roots.

Keep in mind, however, that oleander is a very toxic species that should be 
handled with great care. It can be fatal to small animals and children and 
potentially so to some adults. The planting of oleanders is prohibited in 
many communities.

Better yet, in cohorts with the nieghbor, I would write exact specifications 
for the removal and solicit formal, written bids from three liscensed 
landscape contractors with references. Include removing roots, hauling off 
all debris and clean-up in your specs. Removing  aged oleander is not an 
easy task, The plant, all parts, I believe are potentially dangerous to 
animals and humans. It is my personal opinion that governmental agencies 
should be charged with purging the plant from the earth. It is an illegal 
species in many communities, at least for new plantings.

Otherwise, with your neighbor, just start hacking but be careful. I really 
don't believe it would be practical to use herbicides but if a professional 
tells you otherwise, confirm it with a couple of second opinions.

To confirm any of this log on to Nerium oleander and read about it before 
you start anything.  Perhaps you are already aware of the hazards of this 
species but don't do anything until you are.

Dick Gross, Master Gardener Volunteer
U of A Maricopa County Cooperative Extension



----- Original Message ----- 
From: <rick.cullison at intel.com>
To: <arid_gardener at Ag.arizona.edu>
Sent: Wednesday, May 14, 2008 2:59 PM
Subject: [Arid_gardener] Question from Home-Hort WWW page


> Rick
> 85007
> rick.cullison at intel.com
>
> There is a large oleander hedge on the property line between my house and 
> my neighbors'. It's quite large, probably about 50 years old. Could you 
> provide any suggestions on how to get rid of it? Thank you.
>
>
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