How to choose a garden pruner

What is seasonal gardening

create conditions

It is necessary to regularly engage in pruning and crown formation, otherwise this will weaken the tree and it will no longer be able to support the weight of the fruit. They will fall from it, and therefore you no longer have to rely on the harvest.

Dry branches falling from trees need to be treated with special attention, since later they can cause you a lot of problems. The fact that you have to collect them all over the garden is one of the small problems that you will face.

If in the summer the air temperature rises to a critical level and there is a danger of fire from a spark for dry grass, then dry branches will contribute to the spread of fire, and therefore, because of them, your country house may also flare up at some point.

Naturally, all problems cannot be solved in one day. Keeping your garden trees in good condition will take a lot of time each season. And in this matter there are certain nuances that every summer resident should know about.

The most suitable time for winter pruning is when the air temperature does not drop below 10 degrees. If you neglect this advice, the branches will begin to break, and the process of tightening the cut will last long enough. Pome species - pears and apple trees - should be the first to be subjected to such a procedure.

Also, the garden needs spring pruning, which allows you to form a crown in the form of a bowl. The main goal of this work is to thin the branches as best as possible, thereby allowing the sun to penetrate deep into the crown, which will accelerate the ripening of the crop.

You should also carry out autumn pruning, thanks to which the plants become more prepared for wintering. The essence of this work is to remove old, dry and diseased branches.

Pruning shears and saws are some of the most commonly used tools for this type of work. But they do not always turn out to be quite effective, since in some cases the branches can be located quite high, and it can be unsafe to use a ladder for this. Therefore, for such cases, it is useful to have a lopper in your arsenal.

Features of using the pruning shears

• the presence of a reinforced lever allows the pruner to demonstrate high productivity, cutting even large knots becomes less labor-intensive;
• the lopper can be used to cut thick branches up to 5 cm in diameter;
• Thanks to the improved design of the delimbing shears offered today, they further simplify the operation of pruning branches, this is due to the presence of a ratchet mechanism and a telescopic handle.

An additional advantage of these scissors is that it allows you to save money on tree maintenance. Conventional tools cannot cope with pruning dry twigs found in large trees such as pine, so in such cases it is usually necessary to use the services of special teams.

However, the prices of their services are very high, so the telescopic lopper is more profitable in this regard. You can not only do this work without serious costs, but also subsequently perform similar operations, which provides even greater savings from the use of such a tool.

Recent Entries
Chainsaw or electric saw - what to choose for the garden? 4 mistakes when growing tomatoes in pots that almost all housewives make Secrets of growing seedlings from the Japanese, who are very sensitive to the earth

Best Ratchet Pruners

The ratchet scissors are based on the ratchet principle, which allows you to divide efforts and remove problem branches in several stages without losing the evenness of the cut. Pruning trees is an important step in gardening. During operation, the instrument emits a characteristic crackling sound.Among the 7 models analyzed by specialists, 3 secateurs were recognized as the most convenient, safe and effective.

Raco 4206-53 / 150C

Professional pruning shears with ratchet or, in other words, ratchet. This device allows you not to apply a lot of effort when pressing the scissors and make an even, neat cut. Thanks to him, the blades move in only one direction, without a reverse stroke, which is convenient for processing thick branches. To the tool "on the teeth" of the surface with a diameter of 20 mm. With such opportunities, the model successfully works with young trees and shrubs.

The Raco 4206-53 / 150C is a one-handed design that needs to be held in one palm during pruning. This frees up the other hand and allows you to lean against the ladder for safety when working at height. Closing of the blades occurs effortlessly thanks to a special spring, they are disengaged just as easily. The safety of the secateurs is also well thought out - for transportation and storage, the cutting elements can be temporarily blocked.

Dignity

• There is a finger loop for easy grip;
• Weight 250 g;
• Corrosion-resistant aluminum handles;
• Rubber pads do not rub your hands;
• Two-piece handle for a secure grip.

disadvantages

• At first, the handles are tightly locked;
• In some places, a gap is noticeable at the place of fixing the rubber insert.

The pruning shear blades are well sharpened under computer control, which results in a high-quality, neat cut. They do not grind for a long time and work confidently due to the brush built into the oiler for cleaning the cutting part.

Centerinstrument Finland 1611

Another pruner in the rating with a ratchet mechanism, only this model makes a cut in 3 stages. Thanks to this, it turns out to be even and neat, and it also manages to get rid of thick branches. Its diameter is 25 cm, but thicker surfaces can be cut in a few steps. The tool is quite long (22 cm), so it is convenient for both men and women to work with it.

The product weighs 245 g and is not hard to hold for a long time. The blades are sharp and do not grind for a long time. The cutting head is made of corrosion-resistant steel. The model picks up both dry and damp wood well. It is characterized by comfortable handles with a loop for the fingers, which provides a comfortable and safe grip.

Dignity

• Built-in oiler;
• 2 years warranty;
• Reliable blade holder;
• Doesn't require a lot of effort;
• Increased cutting capacity.

disadvantages

Removable blades are not easy to find.

Mr. Logo 16740

Model with a ratchet mechanism that allows the blades to move only in compression, and the reverse stroke is blocked. This principle of operation makes it easier to cut thick branches and is especially relevant for weakened hands. The cutting head can be locked while the tool is not in use for safe storage. The pruning shears have a return spring that eliminates the need to apply force when opening the blades.

The pruner "Mr.Logo 16740" is designed to be fixed in one hand, which allows freeing the other. This is especially true when pruning trees at a height, when you need to hold onto something to avoid falling. Unlike previous models, there are no finger loops, but there is a rubber pad. Thanks to it, it is possible to avoid rubbing the skin and sliding the palm.

Dignity

• Maximum cut diameter - 24 mm;
• Weight 245 g;
• Stainless steel handles;
• Cuts branches easily;
• Does not break wood.

disadvantages

Rubber pads are not scratch resistant.

The total length of the tool is 20.5 cm, which makes it comfortable to use the pruner for pruning tall trees.

Types of secateurs

There are 2 main types of pruners sold at hardware stores, garden centers, professional gardening stores and many other places where garden supplies and accessories are an important part of the range. Let's look at these types, among which everyone can find the most suitable option.

However, before considering the different types, it is worth figuring out why you need to prune plants, how to use this tool?

Pruning goals

1. Stimulation, regulation of flowering, fruiting of garden plants.
2. Healing plants, improving their appearance.
3. Rejuvenation of old plants.
4. Modeling the shape of plants so that the shape of the bush fits into the concept of the site decor, landscape design.
5. In order to avoid overgrowth, the growth of some plants is limited, and the shoots are thinned.

There are 2 types of garden tools, classified according to their design, mechanism of action:

1. planar,
2. contact.

Plane Models

According to the mechanism, flat pruning shears resemble scissors, they have 2 blades:

1. one bent
2. the second is in the form of a hook, overlapping the first.

Some models are equipped with teeth on the lower blade to support the branches tightly. The flat pruner is ideal for pruning green shoots and branches, the cuts are the most accurate, gentle. There are models for cutting large branches, depending on the size of the tool, even thick ones. They are also used for cutting all kinds of garters used in gardens. Depending on the size, the planar tool is divided into:

• One-handed - with smaller dimensions, designed for one-handed operation.
• Two-handed, long-handled - great for pruning, hedge trimming, if someone is not using electric scissors. The laboriousness of the operation is compensated for by high precision, which gives excellent results. It should be remembered about the safety of cutting, the blades are sharp, otherwise pruning shrubs and other plants may result in injuries.

Longer handles do not mean the ability to trim branches of any thickness, therefore, for branches more than 4 cm thick, it is advisable to apply:

• axe,
• electric scissors,
• garden saw.

In 1997, the Fiskars brand introduced the first universal sector, the Giraffe, with a long handle, plus the ability to extend the handle through a telescopic mechanism. The length of the tool can be extended up to 6 meters.

Contact models

The blades in contact pruners are different:

1. One not sharpened - counter-blade, also called anvil, serves to fix the shoot during cutting. The lower counter-blade is sometimes equipped with teeth to ensure the stability of the shoots, which does not allow the cut branches to slip. Slip of the secateurs in some cases is inconvenient and dangerous.
2. The second is flat, sharply sharpened, pressed against the counter blade and makes a cut.

Contact pruning shears can be telescopic, allowing the length of the handle to be adjusted. Thanks to this, with the help of one tool, you can easily reach high branches, shoots in hard-to-reach places without using a ladder.

Contact pruners are:

1. one-handed,
2. two-handed.

One-handed secateurs - video

Two-handed models - video

Mechanism selection

When choosing a brush cutter, special attention should be paid to the return spring. Everything is simple here - the simpler it is, the more convenient it will be to work with it.

The most durable and durable are strip types of plate springs. It is optimal that they are made of strong dense metal.

Pruners can also be mechanical, electrical, battery and gasoline.

Mechanical ones work due to the influence of the muscular force of the operator, these are the cheapest and technically primitive models, their advantages are undoubted:

• products can have different power, are often equipped with a ratchet mechanism, which transports return rotary movements into reciprocating ones;
• the cutting head of a mechanical pruner has a small size, it is lightweight, due to which increased maneuverability is achieved, thanks to which such hedge trimmers allow cutting branches even in the most inaccessible areas;
• the handle of such a mechanism has a T-shaped stop, which prevents the risk of slipping;
• The instrument is not tied to AC power - it does not need to be plugged in or charged from time to time.

There are also disadvantages, namely low power and labor intensity. These hedge trimmers can cut branches up to 5 cm in diameter. Electric pruners, as the name suggests, must be connected to a power source at all times.

This feature can be attributed to shortcomings, but among the advantages are the following:

• environmental safety, absence of toxic, polluting exhaust gases;
• the possibility of turning the working part by 180 degrees, due to which the coverage of branches is significantly improved;
• compactness and dynamism - these qualities allow even the elderly and adolescents to work with the pruner;
• ease of use;
• low noise and vibration level;
• extremely high cut quality, which is due to the presence of a chain saw;
• rubberized handle with control panel.

Electric models are often equipped with a high-altitude telescopic mechanism, so that branches can be effectively cut at a height of 5.5 meters or even higher. Most modern models are usually equipped with an automatic cord that allows the cord to be tightened as the hedge trimmer moves.

Electric models do not differ in special power characteristics, they are designed for cutting branches no more than 2.5 cm in diameter. The use of such a device is sometimes associated with a low level of convenience, because the power cord is often entangled in branches and has to be “released”.

Cordless models combine all the advantages of mechanical and electrical products. They are characterized by good maneuverability and superior performance. The device is powered by a battery, so that work can be carried out autonomously, and this is one of the undoubted advantages of the model.

Using high quality cordless pruning shears has other benefits:

• the operator can freely move around the site;
• if desired, you can always replace the "native" battery with a more powerful one;
• the device is easy to maintain;
• has a relatively low weight;
• works almost silently.

Gasoline models run on liquid fuel, are equipped with a two-stroke engine and an air-cooled system, and are lightweight. The main controls of the device are located on the ergonomic handle, and there are also built-in elements to prevent accidental start-up.

The pluses of such pruners include:

• convenience of work;
• increased power;
• the ability to cut fairly thick branches and even stumps and trunks;
• the ability to carry out work at any slope.

There are also disadvantages:

• harmful exhaust emissions are emitted during operation;
• makes quite a lot of noise;
• requires professional maintenance.

Such products are quite expensive because they are professional equipment. They are rarely bought for work in summer cottages and small garden plots; their main field of application is park zones, squares and reserves.

A separate category of pruning shears includes rod hedge trimmers. They are equipped with an elongated handle, in which a pulley is mounted, which reinforces the transmission to the cutting elements.

Overview

A small overview of individual brands will acquaint you with the manufacturers better and allow you to decide on the final choice.

Kiyo

Professional Japanese secateurs are manufactured by Maruyoshi Mfg. They are distinguished by high quality and no less high price. Main characteristics:

• excellent factory sharpening, which is enough for a long service life;
• original Japanese design both externally and internally: many models are equipped with a V-shaped spring;
• corrosion resistance;
• durable, non-bending blades;
• forged handles with anti-slip surface;
• chrome-plated high-carbon steel cutting blade;
• a light weight;
• a wide range of different models.

It is quite difficult to find for sale on the Russian market.

Black & decker

Dear American brand, one of the leaders in the market for garden tools.Offers a wide range of electric stationary and cordless pruning shears, hedge trimmers and loppers. On some models, the price goes up to $ 300. Most of them are different:

• low noise level;
• additional protection for hands;
• rubberized handles, comfortable and comfortable to hold;
• protective tips on the tires;
• original blade braking system;
• there are brush cutters with an additional accessory - a hacksaw.

Garden equipment from Black & Decker belongs to the premium class. It is not affordable for everyone, but it serves for a long time and efficiently.

Skrab

Popular brand in the Russian market. The range includes both budget models ($ 15) and expensive ones ($ 45). The assembly can be Chinese or Taiwanese. Distinctive features:

• a wide range (under this brand, almost all types of hand pruners are produced);
• blades made of high-carbon steel SK5;
• handles - made of impact-resistant plastic with anti-slip coating;
• bright design elements will not let you lose your tool in the garden;
• a light weight;
• equipped with some kind of "chips": either an additional blade, or a roller mechanism, or adjusting the divorce, or pouring handles, etc .;
• the set often includes a branded blade sharpener.

Fiskars

Finnish company that has been manufacturing garden tools since the 17th century. Distinctive features:

• the main material is the strongest and at the same time extremely lightweight fiberglass reinforced polyamide;
• Teflon coated blades;
• there are models that can cut branches up to 5.5 cm in diameter;
• powerful cutting head;
• unique power drive;
• wide range of products.

In terms of quality, Fiskars garden pruners compete with the American brand Black & Decker, but their prices are much more reasonable. Although the Finnish company is not engaged in the production of electric models.

Gardena

The German brand Gardena is a recognized leader among European manufacturers of high quality garden tools. The company is represented in 120 countries around the world. Emphasizes three pillars of success in selling garden pruners:

• ergonomics;
• quality materials;
• light weight.

Offers customers a wide range of products. There are lines Classic, B / S, A / S, X / L, B / M, A / M, Premium. The Gardena comfort series of garden pruners is especially popular. Their advantages:

• short cutting head for cutting in hard-to-reach places;
• precision sharpening of blades;
• ergonomic handles;
• anti-stick coating;
• 2 gripping positions;
• a groove for the drainage of vegetable juice;
• spring integrated into the body;
• the maximum thickness of the cut branches is 2.5 cm.

The pruner is an indispensable tool in the household of any gardener caring for his trees and shrubs. With it, not only the process of pruning branches and shoots is greatly facilitated. It speeds up the recovery of plants after a traumatic and stressful procedure, prolonging their life. The main thing is to choose the right one at the stage of purchase, and then provide quality care and competent storage. With a careful attitude, it will delight with its functionality more than one garden season.