Pruning is a fundamental practice for maintaining the health and beauty of plants, bushes, and trees. But to truly master the art of pruning, you need the right tools at your disposal. In this guide, we’ll explore the best pruning tools available and how they can elevate your gardening game.
Hand pruners – the most common pruning tools
Bypass Pruners
Bypass pruners are like the Swiss army knives of gardening tools. Their two curved blades slide past each other, leaving clean cuts and keeping your plants healthy. Great for small shrubs, roses, and branches up to a quarter-inch thick, they’re a must-have for any gardener. Remember, for larger branches, stick to your loppers to avoid dulling the blades. Find the right size for you—comfort is key! And don’t forget to keep them clean and sharp for top-notch performance.
Best for: Pruning, trimming, use on flexible stems or green wood
Our top choices:
- Gonicc 8″ Professional Premium Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears
- ClassicPRO Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears
- Original LÖWE 11 Bypass Pruner
Anvil Pruners
While anvil pruners have their uses, they’re not as versatile as bypass pruners. Their straight blade meets a flat piece of metal, making them perfect for tougher, woody stems. But be careful—using them on green plants can cause damage. Stick to dead wood and thicker branches, and keep your pruning saw nearby for the big jobs. Regular cleaning and sharpening will keep them in top shape.
Best for: Cutting old dead wood, pruning woody stems and branches
Our top choices:
- Wolf Garten RSEN Anvil Pruner
- Fiskars 9115 Smooth Action Anvil Pruner
- Kings County Tools 8″ Handheld Anvil Pruner
Straight Blade Pruners
These pruners are the middle ground between scissors and bypass pruners. They’re sturdy enough for delicate pruning but not as strong as bypass pruners. Perfect for deadheading, trimming flowers, and delicate bud trimming, they’re versatile tools for any gardener. Just remember to clean them after each use to keep them in prime condition. With proper care, they’ll be your go-to for all your fine pruning needs.
Best for: Deadheading, cut flowers, small pruning cuts and fine work
Our top choices:
- Kings County Tools Flower and Fruit Pruner
- Hydro Crunch Precision Straight Blade Pruner
- Corona AG 4930 Long Straight Snip
Loppers
When your pruning shears just won’t cut it for those hefty branches, it’s time to bring out the loppers. With their extended handles and robust construction, loppers give you the power to handle larger branches effortlessly. Whether you’re sculpting shrubs or pruning fruit trees, loppers are your trusty companions for heavy-duty cutting. Seek out models with comfy ergonomic handles and adjustable blades for extra comfort and adaptability.
Great for: Pruning bushes and trees with thicker branches, providing the leverage needed for shaping shrubs, trimming overgrown branches, and pruning fruit trees.
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Pruning Saw
When you’ve got some seriously tough branches to trim, reach for a pruning saw – it’s your secret weapon! With its super sharp teeth and unstoppable cutting strength, this saw can handle even the trickiest branches and overgrown areas. Whether you’re trimming trees or reclaiming your backyard jungle, a pruning saw is essential for any serious gardener. Just remember to protect your hands with sturdy gloves while you work.
Great for: big tree branches and limbs, essential for pruning trees and tidying up your garden or yard.
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Hedge Trimmer
When it’s time to tackle those unruly hedges and shrubs, you need a trusty hedge trimmer by your side. These mighty tools make shaping and trimming your greenery a piece of cake, so you can achieve neat, tidy lines with ease. Keep an eye out for hedge trimmers with adjustable blades and comfy handles – they’ll make your job even smoother.
Best for: Hedges and shrubs for a tidy look, creating clean cuts on thick foliage to keep your outdoor space looking sharp and stylish.
Our top pics:
- BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer
- Greenworks 4 Amp 22″ Corded Electric Dual-Action Hedge Trimmer
Safety Gear
Gardening might seem like a relaxing hobby, but it’s important to remember that it can also pose some risks if you’re not careful. Make sure to wear gloves to shield your hands from thorns and sharp edges, and don’t overlook safety glasses to safeguard your eyes from any debris that might fly around. Remember, safety should always come first!
Pruning Gloves
Pruning gloves are your hands’ best defense in the garden, shielding them from thorns, sharp edges, and rough surfaces. Crafted from durable materials like leather or synthetic leather, these gloves offer reinforced fingertips and extra padding on palms and knuckles for added protection. Ensure a snug yet flexible fit with adjustable wrist closures, allowing for dexterity while keeping dirt out. Regular cleaning and conditioning maintain their durability.
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Safety Glasses
Safety glasses are essential for protecting your eyes during pruning. They shield against flying debris, dirt, and splinters that can cause irritation or injury. Opt for glasses with shatterproof lenses and a snug, comfortable fit to ensure maximum protection without compromising visibility. Whether you’re pruning branches, mowing the lawn, or using power tools, safety glasses are a must-have accessory.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best tool for pruning trees?
If you’ve got some big tree branches to trim, grab a pruning saw—it’s built tough to handle those hefty limbs without breaking a sweat. Its sharp teeth make quick work of even the toughest branches, so you can get the job done efficiently and with minimal effort.
What is the best tool to trim bushes?
When it’s time to trim your bushes, reach for pruning shears—they’re perfect for snipping smaller branches and shaping your greenery just the way you like it. If you want to shape them for hedges, you can also use a hedge trimmer.
Can I use scissors to prune?
While scissors can work for pruning smaller plants and bushes, they might struggle with thicker branches and tougher jobs. For those, it’s best to use loppers, shears or a pruning saw.
