The best tools for pruning

Secateurs Used to cut material up to about 2cm thick, secateurs are available in two main styles. The single-blade ‘anvil’ type is good for deadheading flowers and pruning deadwood but will crush green stems. Double-bladed ‘bypass’ secateurs are the great all-rounder, with their scissor action. Some bypass styles work with a ratchet system, making cutting even easier, and this is a boon for anyone with arthritis or reduced hand strength.

Pouch or tool belt Never lose your secateurs again! This is probably the handiest garden accessory you could ever have (and it puts an end to those pesky holes in your back pocket…).

Lopper This is the secateurs’ stronger, taller sibling, and it’s ideal for cutting higher or thicker stems. Some loppers can cut material up to 55mm in diameter, depending on the mechanism, which can be anvil, gear-and-cam or bypass.

Shears These days we’re spoilt for choice with the great features available on shears, including contoured blades, cushioned grips, shock absorbers, adjustable blade tension, power-gearing mechanisms and telescopic systems for extra reach. Go for whatever feels most comfortable for you – the lighter the better for ease of use.

Pruning saw Used to cut larger, tougher branches that can’t be handled by a lopper or pole pruner, pruning saws have slightly curved blades with very sharp teeth, so handle with care. Invest in a good quality tempered-steel, tri-cut blade, and consider buying a folding saw, as it will protect the blade (and you!) when not in use. The best value for money is a saw with replaceable blades, so you don’t have to buy a new saw every time the blade wears out.

Hedge trimmer This is a garden shear on steroids. It makes hedge pruning quick, satisfying and, dare we say it, fun! As with any power tool, it’s worth investigating the pros and cons of the various electric, cordless and petrol models. Consider their weight, ease of use and convenience.

Pole pruner When you need to prune tall branches or thin out the centre of a spiky tree or shrub, this is the tool for the job. You can also use it to trim at ground level without kneeling or bending. Many pole pruners have a telescopic pole, and some extend to 6m. Most include a pruning saw attachment for thick, heavy branches.

Motorised pole pruner With some models extending to 4m or 5m, the motorised version of the humble pole pruner makes light work of tall branches. Working like a mini-chainsaw, this tool can cut material up to about 15cm thick. Electric, petrol and battery versions vary in weight and ease of use, so it’s worth trying before you buy. Some come with accessories such as hedge trimmers, whipper snippers and leaf blowers.

Chainsaw They’re perfect for heavy-duty tree pruning but can be dangerous if you haven’t received proper safety training. Basically, a chainsaw comprises a set of saw teeth attached to a rotating chain that’s driven along a guide bar, using petrol, battery or electric power.

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