How To Choose and Use Pruners

Pruning maintains plant health and appearance. Choosing the right pruning tool for the job can make all the difference in achieving clean cuts and promoting healthy growth. In the video above, This Old House landscape contractor Jenn Nawada explains the differences between two common types of pruners and shares valuable tips on their proper use and maintenance. Our guide also offers recommendations on the best time to prune, shopping tips, and maintenance advice.

Types of Pruners

The two main pruners are anvil pruners and bypass pruners, each designed for specific pruning tasks.

Anvil Pruners

Anvil pruners are characterized by their unique cutting mechanism, resembling a hammer striking an anvil. These pruners feature a sharp blade that comes down onto a flat, blunt surface, creating a crushing action when cutting. This gives them a strong cut, making them ideal for tackling thicker, dead branches and removing bulk material from trees and shrubs.

However, anvil pruners are less precise in their cuts and can potentially damage live plant tissue. Their crushing action isn’t suitable for delicate pruning tasks on live plants.

Bypass Pruners

Bypass pruners are the more versatile and commonly used type of pruning tool. They feature two curved blades that slide past each other, creating a clean, scissor-like cut. This design provides clean, precise cuts, making them ideal for live plants and delicate pruning tasks.

Bypass pruners are less likely to damage plant tissue, allowing for controlled shaping and trimming. Their versatility makes them the preferred choice for most gardening tasks. The precise cutting action of bypass pruners helps maintain the health and appearance of your plants with minimal effort.

Choosing the Right Pruner

Selecting the appropriate pruner for your gardening needs depends on the tasks you’ll be performing. Consider the following factors when choosing between anvil and bypass pruners:

• Branch thickness: Bypass pruners are generally effective for branches up to 3/4 inch in diameter, while anvil pruners can handle slightly thicker branches.
• Frequency of use: For regular pruning tasks, invest in a high-quality pair of bypass pruners for versatility and longevity.
• Plant type: For live plants and delicate pruning, opt for bypass pruners. Anvil pruners may be more suitable for the removal of dead wood and bulk material.
• Precision required: If you need to make clean, precise cuts close to buds or stems, bypass pruners are the better choice.

Ergonomics and Comfort

When choosing pruners, consider ergonomic design and comfort. Look for pruners with padded handles and spring mechanisms that reduce hand fatigue. Some pruners also have adjustable blade tension, which allows customization of the cutting force required. This feature can be especially helpful for those with arthritis or limited hand strength.

Material and Construction

The durability and efficiency of pruners depend on the construction material. Stainless steel blades resist rust and stay sharp for a longer time. High-carbon steel blades offer excellent cutting performance but need more maintenance to avoid rusting. Aluminum or fiberglass handles reduce weight and improve maneuverability for extended use.

Pruning Techniques

Using the correct pruning technique matters just as much as selecting the right tool. Here are some tips for proper pruning. 

• Cut close to the bud: When removing branches, cut close to the bud or main stem without damaging it.
• Identify the “V” shape: When pruning, look for the V-shaped junctions where branches meet. These are ideal spots for making cuts.
• Make angled cuts: Position your pruners at a slight angle when cutting to promote water runoff and prevent disease.
• Remove dead or diseased wood: Prioritize the removal of dead, damaged, or diseased branches to promote overall plant health.
• Shape gradually: Take your time and make multiple small cuts rather than removing large sections at once.

Techniques for Different Plants

Different plants may require specific pruning techniques. For instance, roses benefit from cutting back to an outward-facing bud to encourage open growth and airflow through the plant’s center. This practice prevents fungal diseases and promotes healthier blooms. In contrast, fruit trees often require thinning cuts to remove crowded branches without affecting the tree’s overall shape.

Safety Tips

Safety should always be a priority when pruning. Using sharp tools reduces strain and ensures clean cuts that heal faster. Wear gloves to protect your hands and safety glasses to shield your eyes from debris. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially when using ladders or reaching high branches.

Best Times To Prune

General pruning can occur year-round, but specific timing can enhance results. For most flowering shrubs, prune immediately after they finish blooming to avoid removing next year’s flower buds. Deciduous trees and shrubs should be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Summer is a good time for light pruning and shaping of hedges and evergreens.

Different seasons bring different pruning needs. Late winter is an ideal time for pruning many deciduous trees and shrubs to remove dead or damaged wood and shape the plant before new growth starts. This timing allows you to see the plant’s structure without foliage obstructing the view. In spring, focus on shaping and encouraging blooms. Summer pruning often involves maintaining the plant’s form.

Refer to specific timelines for various plants to ensure optimal pruning times. For example, prune hydrangeas after their summer bloom. Lilacs should be pruned immediately after their spring bloom. Understanding the growth cycles and bloom times of your plants will help optimize your pruning schedule and achieve the best results.

Maintaining Your Pruners

Maintenance extends your pruners’ longevity and effectiveness. Follow these steps to maintain your pruners:

• Clean after use: Wipe the blades clean of sap and debris after each use.
• Sterilize regularly: Create a solution of one part bleach to three parts water. Dip the open blades into the solution and swirl them around to disinfect.
• Rinse and dry: After sterilizing, rinse the pruners with clean water and dry them thoroughly to prevent rusting.
• Sharpen blades: Periodically sharpen the blades using a sharpening stone or file to maintain their cutting efficiency.
• Oil moving parts: To keep the pruners operating smoothly, apply a drop of oil to the pivot point and other moving parts.
• Inspect for wear and tear: Regularly look for nicks or dents in the blades and check the handles for cracks or loose parts. 

Storing Pruners

Store your pruners in a dry place to prevent rust. Hanging them on a pegboard or storing them in a toolbox with compartments can keep them organized and easily accessible. Using blade covers or sheaths can also prevent damage and accidental injuries.

Recommended Pruners

For precision cutting, Nawada prefers to use a pair of bypass pruning shears, which are manufactured by ARS. For tougher cutting tasks that require anvil pruners, Fiskars produces reliable tools that can handle more demanding jobs. Nawada demonstrated a pair of Fiskars anvil pruners in the video. 

Additional Options

Consider other reputable brands and products catering to specific needs. For example, Felco pruners are renowned for their ergonomic design and robust construction, making them a favorite among professional gardeners. Gardeners looking for budget-friendly options might explore Corona pruners, which provide solid performance at a more affordable price.

Do Your Research

When choosing pruners, consider factors like brand reputation, user reviews, and any available warranties. Reliable brands often offer warranties or satisfaction guarantees, giving you confidence in your purchase. User reviews can provide insight into the practical experiences of other gardeners, helping you make a more informed decision.

Note: Expert assistance with this segment was provided by Nawada Landscape Design.

Pruning Tools