Bushes and shrubs can add personality and privacy to your home and yard. But they also can add to your regular maintenance needs and expenses. If you want to cross this yard work off your to-do list, it’s time to get rid of them. Shrub and bush removal costs as low as $140 to as much as $2,200, but you can expect to spend around $380 to $1,170.
Most service providers typically charge a rate of $40 to $150 per bush, depending on the size of the bushes and other cost factors. But there are ways of lowering these rates or removing bushes without spending any money, which we’ll explain below.
In this pricing guide, we’ll cover:
- Average shrub and bush removal costs
- Shrub and bush removal cost estimator by size
- Other factors that affect cost
- Related services
- Pro cost vs. DIY cost
- Cost of shrub and bush removal by location
- FAQ
Average shrub and bush removal costs in 2025
| National average cost | $770 |
| Typical price range | $380 – $1,170 |
| Extreme low-end cost | $140 |
| Extreme high-end cost | $2,200 |
The national average price of bush removal is around $770, which already includes the cost of root removal, debris hauling, dumping fees, and any other necessary work. However, factors such as bush size, plant type, soil composition, root structure, and varying hourly rates can lower or increase the cost.
To save money, you might consider removing the bushes or doing some of the tasks yourself. You also can have a pro remove shrubs in mid to late winter, as bushes typically have fewer or no leaves during this period, making the job easier.
Shrub and bush removal cost estimator by size
The cost to remove shrubs and bushes significantly depends on their size and height. Large bushes are more expensive to remove than shorter ones. Also, small bushes usually have less established roots than taller and older shrubs, making them easier and more affordable to remove.
For example, a honeysuckle bush would cost on the lower end to remove, as it only grows to about 3 feet tall. On the other hand, removing camellias, which can grow between 6 feet and 12 feet tall, can cost anywhere from $130 to $300 per bush.
To calculate your overall project cost, you must know how much it costs to remove a bush based on its height:
| Height of bushes | Typical cost range (per bush) |
| Small (1 to 2 feet) | $15 – $40 |
| Medium (2 to 4 feet) | $40 – $80 |
| Large (4 to 6 feet) | $70 – $150 |
| Extra large (taller than 6 feet) | $130 – $300 |
Other factors that affect cost
Some people love surprises, and some don’t. But no one likes a surprise that adds unexpected expenses to a project already budgeted for. Let’s take a look at some of the factors that can affect the average price of bush removal.
Type of plant
Plant type can influence bush removal costs, as different species have varying heights. This impacts the level of difficulty in removing them as well as the required equipment and labor.
For example, uprooting an elder will be fairly easy, whereas the sharp spines of a hawthorn pose challenges, making its removal more complicated. However, plants like the oleander, known for being poisonous, demand special handling, contributing to higher removal costs compared to less hazardous shrubs like hawthorn.
Soil type
Soil type also affects the complexity of the removal project. Shrubs in sand-based soil take less time and effort to remove than shrubs in dense clay or loam-based soil. So, if your bushes are in less thick and dense soil, it can reduce your total costs.
Accessibility
Ease of access to your shrubs and bushes impacts shrub removal costs. For example, if service providers must park and walk a long way to your shrubs, or the area is obstructed in some way, the work will take longer to complete, increasing labor costs. Bushes positioned up against your house, on uneven ground, or near power lines also can drive up the price.
Root structure and stumps
Shrubs and bushes with deep root systems are more laborious to remove. As a result, the cost to remove them will be higher.
Additionally, you’ll need to remove the stump, as a bush can grow back if the required amount of stump or roots is left untouched. Note, though, that stump removal for shrubs with a more complex root system may cost more.
Trip fees
Contractors may charge more to drive to properties that are farther away. Many may even charge a minimum fee just to come out. So you may be charged for an hour or two even if it’s a very small job that doesn’t take much time or equipment.
Don’t remove shrubs from your property without planning other related services as well. Some landscaping services you might want to consider include shrub trimming, tree removal, and lawn mowing. Also, check if your service provider offers discounts if you book multiple services.
Shrub and bush trimming
If you’ll be leaving a few bushes in your garden, remember to have them trimmed by your lawn care company. It costs around $6 to $16 per bush or between $48 and $75 per hour. Some factors impacting bush and shrub trimming costs include the number of bushes to be trimmed, the type and size of the bushes, as well as the difficulty of the job.
Hedge trimming
Along with your bushes and shrubs, you also must trim your hedges regularly to maintain the beauty of your landscape. On average, hedge trimming costs around $200 to $600, with most homeowners paying around $429.
For homeowners who have the necessary skills, trimming hedges can be fairly easy. And, if you already have the tools, DIY hedge trimming will only cost you time and energy. Otherwise, you can purchase a hedge trimmer for as low as $33 for a manual trimmer and as much as $227 for a gas trimmer.
Hedge removal
If you feel your hedges are beyond trimming, you might want to remove them instead. The cost to remove hedges is about the same as removing shrubs. The labor fees charged by landscaping pros depend on the height and length of the hedges.
Typically, every 5 feet of hedge is considered as one bush. However, some contractors can charge for every 2 to 3 feet of hedge, especially if it’s large or dense.
Tree trimming
Apart from the labor costs, your tree’s size and current health are some of the factors that influence tree trimming costs. You’ll also need to consider the equipment necessary for the trimming job.
For large trees, you’ll need heavy-duty equipment, as trimming them can be risky. Nevertheless, even a small tree can be hazardous to trim, especially if it’s already starting to rot due to pest infestation or other issues.
Tree removal
For diseased trees that are already beyond salvation, the only solution would be to remove them. If you have this issue, you must remove the affected trees as soon as possible to avoid any further damage.
Note, though, that factors like the type and size of the tree can affect the overall tree removal costs.
Soil replacement
If you remove shrubs with extensive root systems, it can leave large, empty holes. Neglecting these hollow spots can lead to problems like poor drainage and compacted soil. So, remember to fill these holes with new soil, which costs around $20 to $180 per cubic yard.
Bush replacement
Now that your shrubs and bushes are gone, you’re left with a blank lawn as your canvas to do what you will. You have several options, including:
Flower bed installation
What better way to add personality, beauty, and color to your yard than by adding flowers? While it may cost extra, hiring a pro to install your flower bed can help ensure it is the correct size and that you have the right border type and proper soil for a beautiful, blossoming flower garden.
Tree planting
If you prefer seeing green to a colorful garden, you may choose to replace your bushes with trees instead. And, if you don’t have the necessary skills, it would be better to hire an arborist or a tree service company to plant the trees on your behalf.
Fence installation
For homeowners who are weary of the constant upkeep required by the bushes bordering their property, replacing them with a fence can be a great solution. The average cost of fence installation ranges from $1,330 to $5,550, depending on factors like project size, type of material, and fence style.
Grass replacement: seed vs. sod
If you remove shrubs from a grassy part of your garden, you can plant new grass in the area instead of replacing the bushes with flowers or trees.
You can go the easy way by seeding your lawn – it takes less work and costs less money. On average, seeding costs between $0.09 and $0.19 per square foot or around $592 to $1,768. However, it can take a few months for the new grass to get fully established.
Laying sod is another way to replenish grass. It involves transplanting already-grown grass, whereas seeding involves planting seeds. But while sodding can give a lawn full of grass faster, its process takes more time and effort and costs more.
Professionally installed sod typically costs $0.86 to $1.75 per square foot, with most homeowners spending between $1,048 to $2,992 on average.
Lawn mowing
Once you’ve replaced the soil and grass in the affected areas, you must schedule regular lawn mowing services. Professional lawn mowing costs around $29 to $65 per hour or between $35 and $100 per visit. If you want to do the mowing yourself, you can purchase a lawn mower for as low as $123 to as high as $2,547.
Pro cost vs. DIY cost
If you already have the necessary tools and protective gear, you may not need to spend a dime on DIY shrub removal. But keep in mind that large bushes or bushes from dense clusters will be more difficult to remove. Plus, some plants, like oleander, are toxic and require special care to handle.
As with other home improvement projects, you must have the required skills and prepare the right tools before working on the task. If you need to purchase the necessary tools for DIY shrub removal, here’s a list of the basic equipment needed:
| DIY equipment | Average cost |
| Safety goggles | $13 |
| Ear muffs | $11 |
| Work gloves | $12 |
| Chainsaw | $112 |
| Pruning shears | $14 |
| Loppers | $40 |
| Cordless hedge trimmer | $83 |
| Pickaxe | $36 |
| Trenching shovel | $34 |
| Rake | $32 |
| Total DIY Cost | $387 |
If you’re up for the job and already have most of the equipment, learn how to remove bushes properly so you can complete the project yourself.
Pro tip: Wearing long pants, boots, and long sleeves can help protect you from scratches, insect bites, and other things that can pose a problem if your legs and arms are unnecessarily exposed.
Cost of bush removal by location
Not all soil is created equal, and different regions have different soil structures. Soil is classified into six types, and most soils are made up of more than one soil texture.
Shrubs in dense clay or loam-based soil are more difficult to remove than shrubs or bushes in light, sandy soil. So, if you live in an area with dense clay or loam-based soil, you may pay more for professional shrub removal services.
The area you live in and the landscaping company you choose also dictate labor prices. If you live in a location where labor rates are high, be sure to consider this when budgeting for this project.
FAQ about shrub and bush removal
Can I replant a shrub?
Yes, it’s possible to transplant your shrubs to another area of your yard. It’s best to prune the roots in the fall to prepare the shrub for transplanting in the spring. For large bushes, root pruning is recommended a year or more before transplanting.
Remember to water the shrub before you move it and after you plant it. You also can add mulch around the replanted shrub to help retain moisture in the soil.
How would I know when it’s time to remove shrubs and bushes?
Some of the reasons for you to remove the bushes on your property include:
- Overgrown shrubs: If your bushes have grown so much, they can compete with other plants for sunlight and nutrients. Plus, they can obstruct views and become hazardous to your family, leaving you with no choice but to remove them.
- Unhealthy plants: If your shrubs are infested with pests and diseases, they can spread to other plants. Also, unhealthy plants can reduce soil quality and decrease your land value.
- Re-landscaping: Removing plants can give you a clean terrain and a better base for new planting ideas if you want to re-landscape your yard.
Is there a best time of year to remove shrubs and bushes?
Yes, the best time to remove shrubs is usually when their leaves shed in the fall or before their foliage grows in the spring. The reason for this is that a bare bush will be easier and faster to remove than a dense one.
Let a pro handle your shrub and bush removal
Shrub and bush removal can be fairly easy depending on their size, plant type, and how many need removal. But if you do not have the equipment on hand or do not feel like investing the time, calling a landscaping pro is your best option.
Professional shrub and bush removal costs as low as $140 to as high as $2,200. But when you consider that with DIY shrub removal, you’ll still have to clean up the debris, dispose of the bushes, and fill in the holes left all over the place, you’ll realize that it’s better to find a pro near you and have them do the job on your behalf.
Final thoughts
Shrub and bush removal can be fairly easy depending on their size, plant type, and how many need to be removed. But if you do not have the equipment on hand, or do not feel like investing the time, calling a professional is your best option. When you factor in that you will still have to clean up debris, dispose of the bushes, and repair the holes left by shrub removal, you may just decide it’s worth it to find a pro near you.
Note: Lawn Love may get a referral fee for matching you with contractors in your area.
Main Image Credit: welcomia | Canva Pro | License
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