Proper Pruning Tools

It is difficult, if not impossible, to get any job done correctly if you do not have the right tools, and pruning is no different. Be sure that you are ready to face your pruning needs by using this helpful list of tools. By simply having at least one of each of these tools, you will be able to honestly say that you have a complete pruning tool kit.

• Hand pruners. Hand pruners are those pruners that can be operated with the use of only one hand. In fact, these types of pruners can often be confused with tin snips in appearance. These types of pruning tools will come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and styles that will help fit the needs you may be faced with. Keep in mind the restrictions that your particular hand pruners may come with, since if you try to force the blades to cut through stems that are too big you can end up damaging not only the plant but the tool as well.
• Loppers. Loppers are one of the more traditional appearing types of pruning tools. Frankly they look like bolt cutters that have the head of a hand pruner. This means that they have long handles that will give you greater leverage, and that you need to use two hands in order to properly use these tools.
• Pruning saw. A pruning saw is a small one handed saw that has a tapered end, and is usually bow shaped. This particular type of shape allows for more controlled, powerful, and fast cuts that you often want to see when pruning. Focus on choosing a saw that will cut both when you push away, and one that will allow you to cut as you pull towards you.
• Power hedge trimmer. Power hedge trimmers are the perfect tool to use when pruning back large hedges and shrubs. These tools will usually come in either electric models or gas powered ones. The electric ones usually aren't very powerful, and require very little maintenance. The gas powered trimmers are typically extremely powerful and will require a decent amount of maintenance to ensure that they are working properly.
• Hand hedge shears. Just like you have hand pruners, you also have hand hedge shears. These tools generally look like over sized scissors and are one of the more common and inexpensive pruning tools available. When choosing one for your tool kit be sure that you decide on one that has comfortable handles, and that is sturdily constructed since you will be getting a pretty heavy workout when you use one.
• Pole saw. These tools are basically mini chainsaws or hand saws that are placed on top of a pole. Usually these tools are only used for reaching high branches that are out of reach, and which may be dangerous to try and cut when standing on a ladder. Keep in mind that these tools, regardless of whether you are using a powered or unpowered version, are not designed for use on a large branch.