Pruning shears can be a helpful tool for gardeners and landscapers, as they can help to remove dead or diseased plants. When purchasing pruning shears, it is important to choose the right type for the job you plan to do. This article will teach you how to choose the best pruning shears for your needs.
What Is a Pruning Shear?
A pruning shear is a type of garden tool that is used to cut branches and twigs from trees, plants, and shrubs. It is a thin, sharp blade that can be easily handled. Shears are typically made of metal, but they can also be made out of other materials, such as plastic.
There are many factors to consider when choosing a pruning shear. The blade size and shape are important, as are the handle and the grip. The shear should also be lightweight and easy to maneuver. And lastly, the blade should be sharpened properly so that it cuts smoothly and accurately.
When selecting a pruning shear, it is important to take into account your specific needs. For example, if you are primarily interested in cutting small branches, a smaller-sized shear might be better suited for you than a larger one would be. Similarly, if you plan on using the shear for cutting large branches or limbs, then a heavier-duty model may be preferable.
Oftentimes, gardeners will keep their pruning shears in their toolbox or shed in order to use them when necessary.
Types of Pruning Shears
When it comes to choosing the right pruning shears for your gardening needs, there are a few things to consider. Here are four types of pruning shears to help you get started:
Axe Pruning Shears: These sturdy shears are perfect for heavy-duty tasks like lopping off branches and cutting down large trees. They come with a blunt blade that’s good for general use, but can also be sharpened to provide finer cuts.
Circle Saw Pruner: This type of pruning saw is best suited for cutting hardwood trees and shrubs. It has a special blade that creates a smooth, even cut without damage or splitting the wood.
Hedge Shears: These small, agile shears are ideal for delicate tasks like trimming back over-hanging branches or tidying up hedge edges. They come in both single- and double-edged styles, and can be easily stored in a pocket or tool belt.
Lansky Pruning Shears: Named after the company that first created them, these versatile shears are perfect for detailed work like removing spent flowers or clipping off stubborn twigs. Their angled, serrated blades make them ideal for precision cutting.
How to Choose the Right Pruning Shear for the Job
When it comes to pruning shears, there are a few things to consider.
First, the type of pruning you are doing will determine the shear you need. For example, if you are cutting back branches that are close to the ground, a hand shear will be perfect. However, if you are pruning taller trees or shrubs, a lopper or saw may be more appropriate.
Next, consider the size of the shear. Shears come in a variety of sizes, from small pocket knives to large chainsaws. The size you choose depends on the size of the branch or branch tree being cut.
Finally, consider your grip. Shears can be slippery, so it is important to have a good grip to avoid slipping. Some shears have ergonomic handles that make this easier than with others.
The Best Time to Use Pruning Shears
When it comes to selecting the right pruning shears, it is important to understand the different types of cuts they make. Here are the four most common types of cuts and when you should use them:
- Cleft or V-shaped Cuts: Use these when you need to remove a large chunk of foliage from a stem.
- Forked Cuts: These are perfect for removing smaller branches and leaves from a stem.
- Circular Cuts: Made when you want to cut away areas of vegetation at a specific radius.
- Plain Edge Shears: Useful for precision cuts, these shears have a blunt edge rather than a serrated one
Conclusion
Pruning shears are an important tool for anyone who cares about gardening. Not only do they help you remove branches and dead leaves, but they can also be used to cut right through the tough stems of plants. When choosing pruning shears, it is important to consider both the size and type of blade that they have. Different types of pruning shears will require different techniques in order to work effectively. Hopefully, this guide has helped you choose the perfect pair of pruning shears for your needs!