Pruning Equipment Basics

Basic equipment is crucial when maintaining the healthy appearance and state of the lawn. It is important to use high quality tools – but often tools of that quality come with a high price tag. Prices can be less of an impact if tools are cared for making them last years after they are purchased.

It is important to choose the right tool while pruning. The tool should be chosen depending on the size, the plant matter and the effectiveness and precision that is required in the cut. Different situations may call for different tools. It is important to wear proper safety apparel and follow precautionary guidelines while operating all pruning tools and machinery.

Pruning Saw
A pruning saw is important in cutting large branches that are too large to cut with shears but to small to warrant the use of an electric saw, or a chain saw. Often anything larger than an inch should be cut with a pruning saw.

A pruning saw may be difficult to use and it is important to use swift strokes while sawing away from the operator. This will decrease the risk of injury while creating sharp lines.

Pruning Shears
Pruning shears are essential for trees and shrubbery that exists in the yard and on the lawn. Pruning shears have the ability to cut through branches nearly an inch thick – and come in very handy when trying to create sun to the lawn. Unblocking shade obstructions are a major part of fixing many common grass problems.

There are two types of basic pruning shears; shears that resemble scissors, and shears that have one blade that presses against a flat surface. These are referred to as anvil shears. Both sets of shears have elongated handles to reach branches far into the bush or tree. These longer handles also provide leverage for thicker or harder to cut branches.

Scissors provide more of an efficient cut as anvil scissors cut from one side rather than two. Anvil types are prone to ruining stems while pruning and therefore for specific cuts scissor shears are more efficient. These scissors have curved blades that overlap and provide a precise and sharp cut. It is important to remember that pruning shears used on large branches will result in torn trees, broken shears and possibly injuries.

Hedge Shears
Hedge shears are used to trim hedges and come in manual or electric variety. These shears define hedges quickly and efficiently and allow the operator to design or trim the hedges.

Hedge shears are available at any local home and garden store and should be in the landscape tool collection if there are hedges on the property. The hedge shears are easy to use and work well for day to day use.

Hedge shears should never be used to prune trees and shrubs. Hedge shears are designed to trim flat and therefore will be ineffective on trees and shrubs. Hedge shears are precision trimmers and should only be used for hedges.

Chain Saws
Chain saws are appropriate to use for large branches. It is important to be trained in using the power tool before approaching. It is important to use safety precautions and equipment before attempting to cut a branch from a tree. Chain saws are often used by trained landscapers rather than amateurs.

With the basic knowledge of these tools – application to the lawn will be quick and efficient. Pruning tools are an extension of the grass. Pruning tools assist with the perfection of the trees, shrubs and plants that surround the lawn. It is crucial to have pruned trees and shrubs to compliment the manicured lawn.

For additional information on lawn care or related topics please visit our lawn care article center.