Pruning Secateurs

This Pruning Secateurs Major has been constructed with high-carbon steel for superior precision and strength. It has a blade length of 225mm, making it ideal for pruning small to medium branches. The handle features quality soft-touch grips and a lightweight design that makes it easy to carry around while pruning.

Using pruning secateurs effectively in your home garden requires proper technique and knowledge of the tool itself.

Types of secateurs:

• Bypass pruners: These are the most common type, featuring two sharp blades that bypass each other like scissors, making clean cuts ideal for live green stems.
• Anvil pruners: These have one sharp blade that meets a flat anvil, suitable for cutting dry or dead wood. However, they can crush softer stems.

Preparing your secateurs:

• Sharpen the blades regularly: Dull blades tear and damage plants instead of making clean cuts. Use a whetstone or file specifically designed for secateurs.
• Lubricate the hinges: Apply a few drops of oil to the hinge joint to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust.
• Adjust the blade tension: Most secateurs have a screw mechanism to adjust the tightness of the blades. A looser setting is good for thin stems, while a tighter one is better for thicker wood.

Making the cut:

• Identify the target branch: Choose the branch you want to remove, considering its overall impact on the plant's shape and health.
• Position the blades: Place the branch at the base of the blades, making sure it's fully supported. For angled cuts, hold the secateurs at the appropriate angle.
• Squeeze the handles smoothly: Apply steady pressure to close the blades completely, making a clean cut through the branch in one go. Avoid twisting or jerking the secateurs.
• Cut at an angle: When pruning live stems, cut at a 45-degree angle just above a bud facing outwards. This encourages healthy growth in the desired direction.

Additional Tips:

• Always wear gloves: Protect your hands from thorns and cuts.
• Clean your secateurs after use: wipe away sap and debris with a damp cloth and dry them thoroughly to prevent rust.
• Store your secateurs properly: Keep them in a dry, well-ventilated place, out of reach of children and pets.