Big Flax Bushes

kenw1, May 15, 4:10pm
Got a few big flax's, if I get stuck into them will they regrow? was thinking of some dramatic trimming back with the chainsaw.

zak410, May 15, 4:22pm
no they wont regrow;
I found the easiest way to remove is to start from the centre of the plant (old rotten), with a strong spade and working out.

gsimpson, May 15, 4:24pm
It sounds like you've got some big flax bushes that you're thinking about trimming back with a chainsaw. Let's talk about whether they'll regrow if you go ahead with your plan.

First off, it's important to know what kind of flax bushes you have. There are a few different types, but the most common is New Zealand flax (Phormium tenax). This plant is known for its tough, sword-shaped leaves and can grow up to 10 feet tall.

If you have New Zealand flax, then the good news is that it's a pretty hardy plant and can tolerate pruning. In fact, regular pruning can help keep the plant healthy and encourage new growth. So, if you're thinking about taking the chainsaw to your flax bushes, it's definitely possible that they'll regrow after being trimmed back.

However, it's important to be careful when pruning flax bushes. These plants have sharp leaves that can be dangerous if not handled properly. Make sure you wear gloves and long sleeves to protect yourself from cuts and scratches. And when using a chainsaw, be sure to follow all safety precautions to avoid injury.

When you're ready to prune your flax bushes, start by removing any dead or damaged leaves. Then, you can start trimming back the rest of the plant. The key is to not cut too much off at once. Instead, take off a little bit at a time and step back to see how the plant looks. You can always come back later and take off more if needed.

As for whether your flax bushes will regrow, that really depends on how much you trim off. If you only take off a little bit, then the plant will likely bounce back quickly and start producing new leaves. However, if you go too far and remove too much of the plant, then it may take longer for it to regrow, or it may not regrow at all.

In general, it's best to avoid going too crazy with the chainsaw when pruning flax bushes. These plants are tough, but they still need some of their leaves to produce energy through photosynthesis. If you take off too much, then the plant may not have enough energy to regrow.

So, in summary, it's definitely possible for your flax bushes to regrow after being trimmed back with a chainsaw. Just be sure to take your time, wear protective gear, and don't go too crazy with the cutting. With a little bit of patience and care, your flax bushes should bounce back in no time!

pauldw, May 15, 4:27pm
They will regrow. I think a chainsaw would just get jammed. Flax strippers use a hooked knife. Short of one of tbose I use a heavy bread knife to trim mine.

Edit You split flaxes up by trimming the leaves and replanting so why wouldn't they grow?

kenw1, May 15, 4:28pm
They are on our septic tank drainage field, so a digger is a no no.

Last time just used a big sharp knife so it might be back to that.

annies3, May 15, 4:52pm
Axe is ok too they will regrow as long as you keep some root with each piece you remove, or if you are just wanting to trim them rather than divide I think you would still need to remove the root or they will regrow.

kenw1, May 15, 5:18pm
Just got stuck into one with a serrated bread knife, (shh dont tell the wife) trims really easily, just need to make them more columnar as they spread all the saggy stems over the turn around.

All the bits going on yet another bonfire, after clearing all the front fence of gorse n rubbish.

harrislucinda, May 15, 5:50pm
I had 1 and cut all leaves back then used a axe for the root took a fews days but removed in the end Never again hate them now

kenw1, May 15, 6:17pm
We need them there as they are a portion of the soakage field, just getting straggly.

annies3, Jan 9, 4:54am
Great wind breaks too and in a native situation they are great.