From Shears to Saws: Finding the Best Pruning Tools for Every Task 🌳🔪🪚

Welcome to the world of gardening! The journey can be both therapeutic and rewarding. It gives you a sense of pride and satisfaction once you see your plants bloom and grow. But in order to achieve that, you must have the right tools to do the job. Pruning is an essential part of gardening, and choosing the right tool will make the task much easier and efficient. In this blog, we will discuss the different types of pruning tools for each task and their uses.

Types of Pruning Tools 🪚

Hand Pruners

Hand pruners, also known as secateurs, are designed for cutting small branches and stems. They have sharp, pointed blades that can cut precisely and cleanly. There are two types of hand pruners: bypass and anvil. Bypass pruners are perfect for cutting live branches as they make a clean cut. On the other hand, anvil pruners are ideal for dead and dried wood.

Loppers

Loppers are designed for cutting thick branches that hand pruners cannot handle. They have longer handles, and the blades are thicker and more robust than hand pruners. There are two types of loppers: bypass and anvil, just like hand pruners. Bypass loppers are perfect for live branches, while anvil loppers are ideal for dead wood.

Hedge Shears

Hedge shears are designed for shaping and pruning hedges, shrubs, and small plants. They have long blades, and the handles are shorter than loppers. The blades are straight and sharp, and they can cut evenly and cleanly. Some hedge shears also come with wavy blades that can grip branches, preventing them from slipping as you cut them.

Pruning Saws

Pruning Saws are designed for cutting thick branches and stems that loppers cannot handle. They have long, narrow and sharp blades with teeth that can cut through most woods quickly. They come in two types; folding and fixed blade pruning saws. Folding pruning saws are more portable and are best for small tasks, while fixed blade pruning saws are more robust and heavy-duty, perfect for cutting through larger branches.

Finding the Right Pruning Tool for Each Task 🤔

Cutting Live Branches

When cutting live branches, it’s best to use bypass pruning tools. They make clean cuts, which promotes faster healing, and they will not crush the surrounding branches. Bypass hand pruners are perfect for small branches while bypass loppers are perfect for larger branches. Ensure that the diameter of the branch is within the maximum cutting capacity of the pruner or lopper.

Cutting Dead Wood

Anvil pruning tools are perfect for cutting dead and dried wood. They have a blunt edge that crushes the wood, making it easier to cut. Unlike bypass pruning tools, anvil pruning tools don’t make clean cuts, leaving the area susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections. Use anvil hand pruners for small dead branches and anvil loppers for larger deadwood.

Shaping and Cutting Small Plants

Hedge shears are perfect for shaping and cutting small plants such as hedges and shrubs. They are lightweight and easy to use, and the sharp blades ensure a clean and precise cut. When using hedge shears, take note of the blade’s length; ensure that it’s proportional to the plant’s size for even cuts.

Cutting Thick Branches

Pruning saws are perfect for cutting thick branches that other pruning tools cannot handle. They have long and narrow blades with sharp teeth that can easily cut through thick woods. When using pruning saws, make sure the teeth are facing towards you, and do not force the blade. Let the saw do the work and cut through the branch slowly.

Conclusion 💡

In conclusion, choosing the right pruning tool for the job makes pruning an easy task. Hand pruners and loppers are perfect for live branches, while anvil pruning tools are best for dead wood. Hedge shears are ideal for shaping small plants, while pruning saws are perfect for cutting thick branches. Remember to choose the proper tool size and use it correctly for efficient and effective pruning.