So, the pruner is used to remove diseased and dried shoots, to form the crown of a tree or bush, and to care for hedges. Of course, there are saws, without which work on the site is rarely done, the delimbers, which we have already written about, but it is the pruner that is able to act especially delicately and accurately. In addition, this tool is very convenient and functional..
There are the following types of secateurs, depending on the work performed:
- universal, which can perform all actions for pruning shrubs and trees;
- especially for grass, lawn care, if the mower has not quite coped;
- for trimming, caring for flowers, forming bouquets. Used by florists and lovers of flower beds and indoor plants;
- for working with thorny plants. These sectors have special protective pads that protect the hands of the gardener;
- for grafting trees. They are distinguished by knives of a special curly shape, they are able to make mirror cuts on the rootstock and scion. Not used for cutting branches.
In addition, according to their design features, the sectors are:
- secateurs with one cutting blade, it is also called bypass. At the bottom there is a stop plate, offset in relation to the cut line, which allows less damage to the shoots. Such a tool is used to trim even thick branches, it is considered universal;
- reversible, with blades of the same length. Suitable for cutting flowers and grass;
- with an anvil. This sector works more like an ax rather than a scissors, most often used for pruning dry branches;
- ratchet secateurs. It is designed to reduce the efforts that have to be made during work. Even thick, stubborn branches can be cut in a few strokes.
There are also electric pruning shears to make it easier for the gardener to prune large areas..
To choose the right pruner, pay attention to its purpose, decide why you need it. A versatile ratchet pruner is, in principle, perfect for the gardener who plans to simply prune branches and vineyards. The most comfortable are plastic handles with anti-slip rubber pads. Pruning shears with high carbon steel blades last longest.
As for the price, it is very different. From 120 rubles for a simple herb pruner to 850 rubles for a dry branch pruner.
You can store your pruning shears along with all other gardening tools. Caring for the pruner consists in cleaning after each use, you can rinse it under running water, but then wipe it dry immediately. After cleaning, the tool is wiped with a cloth soaked in oil for lubrication and long-term storage. You will have to sharpen the blades, you can contact specialists, in firms that sharpen scissors, or you can do it yourself, with a bar.
I would like to ask, what are the key factors to consider when selecting pruning shears? Additionally, any tips on how to properly care for them to ensure their longevity and optimal performance? Thank you!
When selecting pruning shears, it is important to consider factors such as the type of pruning you will be doing (e.g. light or heavy duty), the size and strength of your hands, the cutting capacity of the shears, and the material they are made of. Look for shears with sharp, high-quality blades and a comfortable grip.
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your pruning shears, it is important to clean and oil them regularly to prevent rust and keep them moving smoothly. Make sure to sharpen the blades as needed to maintain their cutting effectiveness. Store them in a dry place to prevent corrosion. Lastly, avoid using them for tasks they are not designed for, as this can damage the blades and reduce their lifespan.