Gardeners’ guide to using Pruning Shears

Pruning shears, also called hand pruners or secateurs, are essential in any gardener’s toolbox. These multipurpose tools are vital in preserving the beauty and well-being of plants because they allow for accurate and controlled cutting. We will examine the types, applications, upkeep and vital role that pruning shears play in creating thriving gardens as we delve into the essential elements of this thorough guide.

Table of Contents

See also: Gardening tools: Must-have tools for growing a home garden

Pruning Shears: Types and uses

There are several varieties of pruning shears, each made to handle particular tasks. The primary categories are Ratchet pruners, anvil pruners and bypass pruners. Because of their scissor-like action, bypass pruners are perfect for precise cuts on live branches. Anvil pruners are good for deadwood and more challenging branches because of their sharp blade, which cuts against a flat surface. The stepped mechanism of ratchet pruners makes it easier to cut through thicker branches.

When to use Bypass Pruners?

Green, live branches: Bypass pruners are excellent at cutting through live branches cleanly without inflicting needless harm.
Delicate plants: They are perfect for tender plants because of their scissor-like action, which reduces tissue damage.

When to use Anvil Pruners?

Deadwood: Anvil pruners work exceptionally well to cut through woody and dead branches with less accuracy.
Thicker stems: Their design provides Greater force, making them appropriate for thicker branches and stems.

When to use Ratchet Pruners?

Limited strength: Ratchet pruners are helpful because they gradually chop through branches if strength is an issue.
Thick branches: Using a ratcheting mechanism makes it possible to cut thicker branches more efficiently and with less force.

Caring for your Pruning Shears: Maintenance Tips

Pruning shears require proper upkeep to remain long-lasting and efficient. Key elements in maintaining the best possible condition for your tools are routine cleaning, sharpening and lubrication.

Cleaning: Use a wire brush or putty knife to clean the blades of sap and debris after each use. Use a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the blades to stop plant diseases from spreading.

Sharpening: Plant health is enhanced by clean cuts made by sharp blades. Use a file or sharpening stone to sharpen the blades regularly. The blades may require professional sharpening if they are seriously damaged.

Lubrication: To stop rust and guarantee smooth operation, lubricate the pivot and blades with a light oil or silicone-based lubricant. After lubricating, open and close the blades multiple times to distribute the oil evenly.

Safety measures

Even though pruning shears do not naturally contain poison, using them safely is crucial. To protect your hands and eyes, always wear safety glasses and gloves. Furthermore, be cautious when trimming certain plants because they might contain thorns or sap that could irritate or harm you.

Common Pruning mistakes to avoid

Incorrect cutting angle: If a plant is cut at the wrong angle, it may not heal properly and become more prone to disease. Make sure to make a precise incision slightly above a bud or node.
Overpruning: Overpruning plants can cause stress and stunt their growth. To prevent over-pruning, adhere to the recommended guidelines for each type of plant.
Ignoring tool maintenance: Plant damage can result from dull, dirty blades, making pruning more difficult. For best results, give your pruning shears a routine cleaning and sharpening.
Ignoring safety precautions: Wear gloves and safety glasses, as well as other appropriate protective gear, at all times. Pruning can involve debris and sharp tools, so safety is crucial.

FAQs

Can I cut both dead and live branches with the same pruning shears?

Anvil pruners work best on deadwood, but some pruning shears, such as bypass pruners, are made for live branches. It is advised to have distinct shears for every task to guarantee precise cuts and extended tool life.

How often should my pruning shears be sharpened?

Maintaining sharp blades requires regular sharpening. Depending on usage, sharpening should be done every few weeks or at least once a month. After each use, check the blades and sharpen as necessary.

Can I cut any kind of plant with pruning shears?

Although pruning shears are very adaptable, different plants might need different kinds of pruning instruments. Always keep the type, size and particular pruning task of the plant in mind. Specialised instruments such as hedge shears or loppers may be beneficial for certain plants.

Which way of cleaning pruning shears is the best?

Use a wire brush or putty knife to clean the blades after each use to get rid of sap and debris. To clean the blades and stop the spread of illness, use a cloth soaked in rubbing alcohol. Optimised performance is ensured by routine cleaning.

Do I need to take any precautions when using pruning shears?

Indeed, safety is paramount. To protect your hands and eyes, always wear safety glasses and gloves. Recognise any characteristics of the plant, such as prickly thorns or irritating sap. Additionally, to prevent mishaps and injuries, use the right cutting techniques.

How do I pick the best pruning shears for my needs in gardening?

Think about the kind of cutting you will be performing. Anvil pruners work better on deadwood, but bypass pruners are suitable for clean cuts on living branches. For comfortable use, consider your hand size as well as the ergonomics of the shears.

When is the ideal time of year to cut plants with pruning shears?

Major pruning is best done in the dormant season, usually late fall to early spring. Light pruning, however, can be carried out all year round. Steer clear of pruning when the plant is under stress or in frigid temperatures, which could impede its recovery.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com

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Anil Shah

Anil Shah, is your go-to source for property market insights. He excels at understanding and explaining the latest trends in residential real estate and making complex real estate concepts easier to grasp. Anil’s fact-based analysis helps buyers and investors make sound decisions in the housing sector.