Pruning shears are an essential tool for Arborists, Landscapers, and Gardeners of all levels. A sharp pair of pruning shears can help you remove branches and twigs from your plants with minimal damage. Follow these steps to sharpen your pruning shears to get the most out of them.
What are pruning shears?
Pruning shears are a type of garden tool that are used to cut branches and leaves from plants. They can be bought in a variety of shapes and sizes, but most resemble a pair of scissors with a sharpened blade on one end.
Types of pruning shears
When it comes to pruning shears, there are a few different types that you can choose from. Here is a list of the most common types of pruning shears, and what they are best used for.
Regular Pruning Shears: Regular pruning shears are typically used for cutting branches and small limbs. They are very sharp and can easily remove any unwanted branches or leaves.
Power Pruning Shears: Power pruning shears are designed for cutting thicker branches and limbs. They have a longer blade length and are stronger than regular pruning shears. This makes them perfect for removing larger branches or limbs from trees and plants.
Hand Pruning Shears: Hand pruning shears are typically used for trimming smaller branches and leaves. They are not as sharp as other types of pruning shears, so they may not be as effective at removing large branches or leaves.
How do pruning shears work?
If you’re looking to sharpen your pruning shears and want to know how they work, here’s a quick overview.
Pruning shears are made of metal or plastic and have two cutting edges that meet in the middle of the blades. The blades are hinged at the base, so you can open them up so that the blades are flat against each other.
To sharpen the pruning shears, you first need to remove any dull or burred parts of the blades using a sharpening stone or steel rod. You can then restore the blades to their original sharpness by stroking them back and forth against each other several times on an angle.
How to sharpen pruning shears
If you have a pair of pruning shears, it is important to keep them sharp for efficient and safe use. Here are a few tips on how to sharpen your pruning shears:
- Use a sharpening stone: A sharpening stone is the best way to keep your pruning shears sharp. Simply place the shears on the stone and sharpen using moderate pressure. Keep in mind that you should use a honing rod to maintain the blades’ symmetry and prevent them from becoming too dull.
- Use a sharpening rod: A sharpening rod can also be used to sharpen your pruning shears. Simply hold the rod against the blades at an angle and sharpen using light pressure. Be sure to use a honing rod to maintain the blades’ symmetry and prevent them from becoming too dull.
- Use an electric sharpener: If you don’t have access to a sharpening stone or rod, an electric sharpener can be used to sharpen your pruning shears. Simply plug in the device and use it like you would a conventional razor. Make sure to use a honing rod to maintain the blades’ symmetry and prevent them from becoming too dull
Conclusion
Pruning shears are an important tool for anyone who cares about maintaining their landscaping or garden. In order to keep your pruning shears sharp and in good condition, it is important to sharpen them on a regular basis. There are a few different ways to accomplish this, and the one you choose depends on the type of pruning shears you have. Whichever way you choose to do it, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully so that your pruning shears stay in good working condition.