Digging out big roots in a flower bed?

[Somna]

We've just moved into a house in an older neighborhood, and the flower beds are in such an overgrown state that I've decided to pull out everything and start from scratch.* But I've hit a BIG problem with shrub roots!* These roots are very stout, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and they run horizontally under the flower bed before plunging very, very deep.* I want them out because I'm afraid they'll interfere with new plant roots, but I just can't seem to get a handle on them.*

Making the problem worse is the fact that these beds are right up next to the house, and they're surrounded by a poured concrete barrier.* A lot of these shrub roots run right up next to the concrete, making it difficult to get leverage on them.* At this point, I'm frustrated enough that I'd take an axe to the things if they weren't right up next to concrete.* Any ideas on how to get these things out?* I'd like to get the beds cleared in time to do some fall perennial planting, and I'm afraid I'll run out of time!

[Newt]

Hi Somna,

Congratulations on your new home!* You might want to use a pruning saw to cut the roots as close to the concrete as you can and then pull them out.* Cutting the roots in sections might work, even if you can't cut all the way through.* That will help them to rot or make it easier to pull out.*

Another option would be to see if you can rent one of these.
http://www.weedwrench.com/index.htm
http://www.misterhoneysuckle.com/

If you find you need to purchase one and can't rent it, and won't have any further need for it, consider donating it to a local native plant society or garden group.

Newt