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What Is A Tree Pruner?

What is a tree pruner? A tree pruner, also known as a planting shear, is a tool used in gardening for precise cutting. It’s especially designed to trim and shape trees and shrubs by removing excess branches and leaves. Some tree pruners have extendable handles that allow you to reach and cut high or distant branches without needing a ladder.

Why choose a tree pruner? Tree pruners are essential tools for any lawn care or landscaping business. They help maintain the health and aesthetics of trees and shrubs by pruning overgrown or dead branches. Regular pruning with a tree pruner can help prevent disease spread, allow for better growth, and improve fruit production in trees. With extendable options available, tree pruners can potentially reduce the risks associated with working at high elevations.

What are the different types of tree pruners?

There are primarily three types of tree pruners:

  • Anvil pruners: Best for cutting dead wood, these have one straight blade that cuts as it closes onto a flat edge (similar to an anvil).
  • Bypass pruners: These function like scissors with two curved blades that slide past each other, making clean cuts. Ideal for live wood and plants.
  • Pole pruners: These are essentially pruners on a long pole, plenty useful for reaching and cutting branches located high up in trees.

What to consider before buying a new tree pruner?

Before buying a new tree pruner, consider the following factors:

  • Size and Types of Plants: Think about whether you’ll mainly be pruning thick branches, delicate plants, or a variety of both.
  • Durability: It must withstand heavy duty use and resist rust for extensive outdoor usage.
  • Comfort and Ease of Use: Look for ergonomic designs to ensure comfort during prolonged use.
  • Cutting Diameter: Choose a pruner capable of cutting through branches of the thickness you’ll be dealing with most frequently.
  • Safety Features: These include things like locking mechanisms to ensure safe storage.

What are some tips to extend life of a tree pruner?

To prolong the life of your tree pruner, consider the following:

  • Cleaning After Every Use: Sap and debris can dull the blade and cause rusting. Wipe down the blades to maintain sharpness and prevent rust.
  • Regularly Lubricate: Apply oil to the blade and other moving parts of the pruner to sustain smooth operation.
  • Sharpening Blades: Regular sharpening of blades ensures efficient, clean cuts.
  • Proper Storage: Store the pruner in a dry, indoor space when not in use to protect it from weather-induced damage.

What are the most popular brands of tree pruners?

Some popular brands for tree pruners include:

  • Fiskars: Known for their durable and ergonomic designs, Fiskars offers high-quality bypass, anvil and pole pruners.
  • Felco: Renowned for their precision cutting and excellent craftsmanship, Felco pruners are a favorite among professionals.
  • Corona: They offer a wide range of pruners designed for both heavy-duty and delicate pruning.
  • ARS: Known for their Japanese quality and razor-sharp blades providing clean cuts.



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