Choosing the right tool for the job makes pruning less of a chore.
Keep bladed tools clean and sharp for best results.
Images: Tim Sandall
Shears
Ideal for clipping hedges and topiary, shears are also practical for deadheading heathers, lavenders and cutting back herbaceous plants. There are several different designs: ‘sheep shears’ are ideal for fine-detail topiary.
Secateurs
These are designed for cutting herbaceous plants and deadheading and pruning woody stems up to 1cm (3/8in) in diameter. Attempting to cut larger stems tears and bruises the plant tissue and can also damage the secateurs.
Loppers
Made to cut branches 1-2.5cm (3/8-1in) thick, loppers have long handles, offering extra leverage over secateurs. Sharpen lopper and secateur blades using a whetstone to ensure clean cuts. Disinfect when pruning diseased plants.
Pruning saws
For larger branches and pruning in confined spaces between other stems use a pruning saw. Buy a good-quality one that folds. Their blades cut when pulled towards you. Hard to sharpen, so blunt blades are best replaced.