January is the best time for pruning your shrubs and trees since they are dormant. Pruning your plants can help maintain shape and keeps them healthy. But which pruners should you get? Hand pruners, loppers, and saws, oh my! With all the different options out there, it can be tough to know which pruner is best for your gardening needs. But don’t worry, we’re here to help!
First things first, let’s break down the different types of pruners:
Pruning Shears
Also known as hand pruners or secateurs, these are the most basic type of pruners. They have a small, sharp blade that’s great for cutting stems and branches up to about 1/2 inch in diameter. These are great for smaller plants and precision pruning.
There are different kinds of pruning shears:
Bypass Pruners
These have a curved blade that passes by a flat anvil blade to make clean cuts. They’re great for cutting living branches and stems because they leave a smoother cut that’s less likely to damage the plant.
Anvil Pruners
These have a straight blade that comes down onto a flat anvil blade to make the cut. They’re better for cutting dead or dry branches because they can handle tougher materials. However, they can crush living branches and leave a jagged cut, so it’s important to be careful when using them.
Floral Pruners
Lightweight, sharp, and ergonomically shaped, floral pruners are usually smaller than your standard pruners. With both blades resembling scissors, it is designed to delicately harvest flowers or snip off stems while you work through your arrangements.
Ratcheting Pruners
These have a mechanism that allows the blade to move in a series of small steps, making it easier to cut through thicker branches. They’re great for people with limited hand strength or for tackling tough branches.
Electric Pruners
These use a small electric motor to power the blade, making them a good option for people who don’t want to deal with the hand fatigue that can come with using manual pruners. However, they can be heavier and more expensive than manual pruners.
In general, bypass pruners are the most versatile and can handle a wide range of pruning tasks. Anvil pruners are good for tougher materials, and ratcheting pruners are a good choice for people with limited hand strength. Electric pruners can be a convenient option, but they can be heavier and more expensive.
Loppers
Loppers are like giant versions of pruning shears. They have long handles and a blade that can cut through branches up to 2 inches in diameter. These are great for pruning larger shrubs and trees.
Pruning Saws
These are for when you need to tackle branches that are too tough for hand pruners or loppers. They have a long, curved blade that’s great for cutting through thick branches.
Which One is Best for You?
Now that we’ve covered the different types of pruners, let’s talk about which one is best for you.
If you’re an avid gardener with a wide variety of plants, it’s a good idea to have a few different kinds on hand. Hand pruners are a must-have for precision pruning, loppers are great for larger shrubs and trees, and a pruning saw is a handy tool to have around for those really tough branches.
If you’re just starting out with gardening and don’t have a lot of plants, a pair of hand pruners should suffice. These are versatile and can handle most basic pruning needs.
No matter which kind you choose, be sure to get a high-quality one. Cheap pruners may seem like a good deal at first, but they’ll quickly become dull and frustrating to use. It’s worth investing in a good pair that will last for years to come.
So there you have it! Now you’re armed with the knowledge you need for your gardening needs. Don’t hesitate to message us on social media or contact us if you have any questions. Happy pruning!
