The Best Pruning Shears

While scissors are great for thin stems, you’ll need a set of pruning shears to tackle thick stems and light tree branches. Not only will the pruning shears help you shape your shrubs and rid your trees of dead branches, but when you use them properly, you’ll also encourage the growth of new buds. If you’re in the market for a set of pruning shears, there are a few things you’ll want to consider as you shop.

A quality blade that is both sharp and durable is the first thing you’ll want to look for in a set of pruning shears. You’ll find models made using titanium, stainless steel and high-quality hardened steel. Some blades have a low-friction coating to make cutting easier. This coating also prevents sap from sticking to the blades; however, many pruning shear models are designed with sap grooves that serve the same purpose.

Examine the pruning shears handle next. Thicker handles may be harder to hold. Thinner handles that are well-designed have just as much power as the thicker models. Look for handles that have an ergonomic design, as they are more comfortable and put less strain on your hands. You also want a rubber grip, so that your hands don’t slip when you use the pruning shears.

Finally, check the pruning shears to see if they have any extra features. For example, there are models that use pulley systems and spring mechanisms to assist in squeezing the shears. That’s a great option for individuals with joint pain or conditions like arthritis. You’ll also find many pruning shears have built-in safety mechanisms that can be utilized with a thumb or just one hand.

• Reviewers report that some pruning shears do better on green or growing wood than they do on dead branches.
• It’s good practice to hand wash your pruning shears after each use. Don’t forget to dry them immediately afterward to prevent rust from forming.
• Design and construction material play the biggest role in determining the price for a set of pruning shears. The Fiskars Steel Bypass Pruning Shears are a more basic model, and therefore the most affordable. You’ll pay a little more for the gonicc Steel Blade Anvil Pruning Shears, as it comes with a pulley design and spring-loaded mechanism that require the user to exert less force. On the higher end of the price scale is the Haus & Garten Titanium Pruning Shears, which is easily adjustable and made from high-quality titanium.