HedgeShears Asthenamesuggests,thesearemainlyused for hedges. A formal hedge is a high maintenancepartofyourlandscape (andlikely will also require hand-held shears for more intricate detailing). Maintaining an informal hedge is less labor intensive and does not require as much skill. Hedge shears must be kept very sharp, so pruning does not stress the plants. Therearehedgeshearswithlong handlesandotherswithordinary handles. The ones with ordinary handleswill give you a bit more control. Keep them well-oiled and sharpenbladesregularly, and this tool canlast a life�me. Good quality tools really makeallthedifferenceingardening. HandSaw Loppers This tool should be used mainly for large This is what you will need for taking out mid- limbs and thicker branches. Using the tree sized branches on a tree. If you no�ce that a trimmer’s three-cut method is ideal when branchischallenging to cut, despite your removingunwantedbranchesfromdwarf loppers being kept sharp, avoid trying to force fruit or ornamental trees (see image above). it and use a hand saw instead (see below for moreonhandsaws). Handsawscomeinavarietyof configura�ons. The preferred Grecian saw has Someloppershavelonghandlestomakeit anarrow,curvedsawbladewithvery�ny easier to reach into the middle of a shrub. teeth making it less likely to nick adjoining Theseareheavierthanregularloppersand branches. This saw cuts on the pull stroke and canbeunwieldy.Youmaygaindistancebut typically does not need sharpening. The shape will lose precision. A helpful �p when pruning of the blade works well with our body’s overgrownshrubsistowearlongsleeves, natural movement,offering a clean cut with gloves, and long pants. It may feel like you are li�le effort. wadingthroughathicketinthewoods,butif youstart by pruning outside stems and work TheStraight Saw is also popular for pruning yourwayin,youwillhaveaneasier�me.A with a sturdy but flexible blade that resists sturdy tool belt that can carry your loppers buckling. They work well on thick branches andhandshearsisalsoagreatinvestment that are between mid-body to shoulder andwill allow you to always have what you height. needonhand. 7