If you're not pruning your shrubs, they undoubtedly really, really need
it. And all you really need are hand pruners, loppers, and a folding
saw, for a total investment of about $150. I'll expound elsewhere on
this site about the joys of pruning but right now let's just talk tools. And readers, send me YOUR favorites in a comment or via email.
Hand Pruners
One thing to know in choosing hand pruners is that they're either of the "bypass" type or the "anvil" type and everyone in the world
recommends the bypass, and so do I. I even wonder why anyone even
makes and sells the other, since they're in such disrepute. The
trouble is that they crush stems unless they're kept very sharp, and
who does that?
Now the important thing about using hand pruners is that
they should only be used for stems ½ inch thickness or smaller. Do NOT
strain to cut something larger with hand pruners because you might
damage it in the process (and strain your hand while you're at it).!
My favorite and the fave of most gardeners I know is made by Felco,
specifically their #2, shown above. They're a bit pricey (in the $60
range) but can last forever, with parts being replaced as needed.
They have a huge selection - some for left-handed people, and even
"ergonomically designed" ones for the weak-handed. Now I put myself in
that category and bought a #7 model with the rotating handle that's
supposedly to be more natural, but never got used to it (to be fair).
In other words, it goes unused unless I can't find my #2.
Holsters and belts for hand pruners are also available and are used
by all the professional gardeners I know. I love the macho look myself.
Loppers
Loppers are used to cut larger stems, up to
2 inches thick. Again, don't strain to cut anything larger than that
or you risk damaging the tool.
A fairly new innovation in loppers is also intended to give the
weaker set more strength by using a ratcheting motion that works in
stages to give maximum leverage with minmal effort. Again I've tried
one and never got the hang of it, honestly. (Is it just me? I'm not
sure I want to know.) But don't let that scare you; try it in the
store and see how it feels because I've seen them demonstrated and they
sure look like they work like a dream.
Fiskars is a good brand for loppers, priced from $17 to $30. Or buy
their "Pro" version with its lifetime warranty for $31-37. Fiskars
ratcheting loppers go for $172 - pricey but possibly worth it if you're
lacking in strength and you can figure out how to use them.
Also highly recommended are Corona brand loppers, another good name in
garden tools. Their longer-than-usual handles offer great leverage and
reach.
Folding pruning saw
For stems and branches larger than 2 inches
thick, it's time for the pruning saw. These little things don't look
like much, especially in their folded condition, and only cost about 15
bucks, so people are amazed at how easily and quickly they cut! No
kidding; they're amazing and last and last and last. All the cheap
ones I've used (purchased at chain hardware stores) have worked well
for me.
Pole pruner
Pole pruners up to 12 feet in length let
you reach for those limbs you'd otherwise have to hire a tree care
company to remove for you, and that ain't cheap. While they can be a
bit awkward to use, it sure beats getting on a ladder, any day.
Hedge Clippers/Shearers
Now for my anti-shearing rant. Shearing shrubs into perfect, unnatural shapes and sizes is the biggest pruning mistake there is (that and not pruning at all). Why? Here's a short course in the reasons.
- Eventually shearing produces an almost inpenetrable
exterior that prevents light, air and water from reaching the center of
the shrub. It also produces a perfect place for leaves and other
debris to accumulate. The interior of the shrub then becomes less and
less vigorous, more susceptible to disease and insect infestation.
- It's awfully high-maintenance to keep perfect shapes perfec
t! What's much less work is a looser, more open and natural style. Details on how to achieve this are coming soon to this very site.
The ONLY time I use hedge clippers (aka shearers) is to remove large numbers of old flower all at once - the fast deadheading method
for masses of perennials or flowering shrubs. Oh, and some conifers
benefit from a light shearing and I have been known to do it to a tall
cylindrical juniper. Very little is actually being cut off - just
enough to remove errant stems and stimulate some new growth at the
plant's center.
Steak knives - for making divisions
Nothing beats a cheap steak knife for slicing through the roots of
perennials. I usually buy 5 for $1 at the Dollar Store every spring
and at that price I don't mind that they don't stay sharp forever.
Tool Choice and Care Information on Line
And in Print
Shopping
Photo credits: Hand pruner by Felco, lopper by Corona, folding saw and hedge clippers from Bahco, and pole pruner from HGPromotions.
bout that. I’ll try to
make it up to you.
by Logan is the latest favorite.
by the editors of Fine Gardening. 
by Gordon and Mary Hayward.
by a bunch of authors. 
by Dobbs and Knowles. 
outstanding
appearance all year long. Long white flowers appear in March and April,
but its evergreen foliage gets lots of attention, too, especially the
new growth that appears in fabulous shades of reds.
