How to Remove a Holly Bush
To remove a holly, cut the top growth back to a low stump, then dig out or grind the root ball — holly roots are tough and the plant will resprout from any left behind. For large hollies, cutting low and treating the fresh stump, or hiring a stump grinder, is the most reliable method.
Removing an established holly takes some effort, because holly is a tough, deep-rooted shrub that resprouts readily from roots and stumps left in the ground. A simple cut to the ground will not kill it; the plant will push new shoots from the base.
The reliable approach is to first cut the top growth down to a low stump with loppers or a saw, wearing sturdy gloves against the spines. Then deal with the roots: on a small holly you can often dig out the root ball entirely by loosening a wide circle and levering it free. On a large holly, digging out the whole root system by hand is hard going — grinding the stump, or having it professionally ground, is usually the most practical option.
If you prefer a chemical assist and it is permitted where you live, cutting the stump low and promptly treating the fresh-cut surface of the stump with an appropriate brush killer helps prevent regrowth. Whichever method you use, watch for suckers over the following season and remove any that appear until the plant gives up.