Pruning shears are a must-have tool for gardeners, landscapers, and homeowners. They can be used to remove diseased or dead branches from trees and shrubs, trim back overhanging branches, and more. In this article, we will teach you how to use pruning shears safely and effectively.
Pruning Shears: What They Are and How to Use Them
When it comes to gardening, there are a few tools that are essential for preserving and managing your plants. One of these tools is pruning shears. What are pruning shears and what do they do?
Pruning shears are specifically designed for cutting branches and foliage. They come in various shapes and sizes, but all of them have one common purpose- to make precise cuts without damaging the plant. When selecting pruning shears, you need to consider both the type of blade the shears have and the grip they require.
To use pruning shears, first determine the type of cut you want to make. For simple cuts such as removing a dead branch, use a standard pair of shears with a straight blade. For more intricate cuts, like trimming off a flower stem, you’ll need a pair of specialized pruning shears with a curved blade or a flexible cutting edge. Once you’ve selected the type of shear you need, grip the handle firmly and make the desired cut.
Pruning Shears for Different Types of Trees
There are different types of trees that require different types of pruning shears. Here is a guide to help you choose the right shears for the job:
- restraining shears: for branches up to 8 inches in diameter, these shears restrain the branch from spreading and prevent it from breaking.
- loppers: for larger branches, a lopper is the best tool for the job because it has two blades that can easily cut through thicker branches.
- chainsaw: if you need to cut through thicker branches or limbs, a chainsaw is your best option because it can slice through even the most stubborn limbs.
- pruning saws: these saws have a thin blade that makes it ideal for cutting small branches and leaves.
Tips for Pruning Trees Properly
The proper way to prune a tree is by removing limbs that are dead, diseased or hazardous. You should also remove branches that are crossing a path or the trunk, and trim off any brown or diseased tissue.
- Measure your limb before you start cutting. Make sure to maintain a consistent angle when cutting the limb so that the tree continues to grow in the direction you want it to.
- Cut away excess wood with a clean, sharp blade. Aim for a smooth, even finish on each side of the cut.
- Avoid overcutting the limb and causing it to break. If necessary, use a sawzall or other specialized tool to cut through hardwood limbs without damaging them.
Pruning Shears for Fruit Trees
Pruning fruit trees can be a daunting task, but with the help of pruning shears, it can be a breeze. Here are four tips for using pruning shears to get the most out of your tree care:
- Determine the type of pruning you need to do.
There are three main types of pruning that you can do to your fruit tree: limb removal, thinning and shaping. Here’s a quick overview of each:
Limb Removal: This is the most common type of pruning, and is used to remove branches that are too weak or dead. To do this, use a saw guide to make sure the blade is perfectly aligned with the branch and then cut through the branch with a clean slice. Be sure to leave a 1-2 inch stub so the branch can grow back!
Thinning: Thinning fruit trees involves removing branches that are overcrowded or growing too close to other branches. To do this, use a saw guide and cut away the excess branches until you reach the desired size. Be sure to leave at least one healthy branch so the tree can regenerate itself!
Pruning Shears for Other Vegetables
Pruning shears can be used for a variety of vegetables, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and beans. There are a few simple steps that will help you to use them safely and effectively:
- Make sure the blades are sharp. Dull blades can cause serious injury.
- grip the vegetable firmly with one hand and hold the shear in the other hand with the blade pointed towards the ground.
- make sure your fingers are curled around the handle to keep from being cut.
- make straight cuts at an angle towards the ground. Don’t force the shear; just take small, gentle strokes.