15 Best Pruning Shears, According To Gardening Experts

A garden is a place of beauty and peace, but it can also be a lot of hard work. Pruning shears are an essential tool for any green thumb looking to keep their garden in tip-top shape, but with so many different types, brands, and sizes out there, it can be hard to know which ones will work best. To make this daunting task easier, Good Housekeeping has tapped into expert advice and rounded up the 11 best pruning shears — like a cherry on top of your gardening sundae!

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, having the right pruning shears is key to achieving the perfect garden. But how do you pick the right ones? It’s like trying to find a needle in a haystack! Luckily for us green thumbs out there, Good Housekeeping has consulted with experts from across the gardening world to bring you this comprehensive guide. From bypass pruners for light-duty cutting to long-handled loppers for larger branches and twigs – we have you covered!

This article will take away all the guesswork so you can spend less time researching and more time tending to your beloved garden. Get ready to learn about the 15 best pruning shears that will help transform your outdoor space into something truly spectacular!

What To Look For When Buying Pruning Shears

Choosing the right pruning shears is like having a chef pick the right knife: it’s essential to have the right tool for the job. When shopping for pruning shears, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, you want to make sure that the blades are sharp and long-lasting. Secondly, look for shears with comfortable handles, as this will make cutting easier and prevent hand fatigue. Lastly, you should also think about how much strength is needed in order to cut through your desired materials—it could be anything from thin twigs to thick branches.

When selecting your pruning shears, it’s important to take into account what kind of material you plan on cutting. If you’ll be dealing with mostly soft vegetation, then a pair of bypass shears would work well since they provide a clean cut and require less effort than anvil shears. But if you’re dealing with thicker branches or stems, then anvil models may be more suitable as they offer more power and durability when slicing through hard materials. Another thing to consider when buying pruning shears is whether or not they have safety features such as a locking mechanism or handle padding which can help prevent accidental cuts.

No matter what type of pruning shear you choose, one thing’s for sure: having the right tool makes all the difference when it comes to gardening success. From making precise cuts without damaging delicate plants to quickly trimming back overgrown shrubs and trees, having reliable pruning tools can help keep your garden looking neat and tidy all year round — no matter how big or small your project may be.

Best Pruning Shears For Delicate Pruning

When it comes to delicate pruning, you need the right tool for the job. It’s important to have a pair of shears that can make precise cuts without damaging the branches or leaves. Gardening experts suggest looking for features like comfortable handles, blades that are curved and non-stick coated, and a good spring tension system.

You also want to look for shears that are lightweight and easy to maneuver. The Fiskars Softouch Micro-Tip Pruner is a great choice because it has all of these features plus an ergonomic design that reduces strain on your hands. Other well-rated options include the Felco 2 Classic Pruner and the Corona Razor Tooth Pruner.

No matter which pruning shear you choose, make sure it can handle the job at hand. With these expert tips in mind, you’ll be able to find a reliable pair of shears that will make delicate pruning easier than ever before. And with proper care, they should last for years to come. With this knowledge in hand, now’s the time to move onto picking out heavy-duty pruning shears.

Best Pruning Shears For Heavy-Duty Pruning

As the old adage goes, “If at first you don’t succeed, prune, prune again.” That’s why it pays to have the right tool for the job. Enter heavy-duty pruning shears – a gardener’s best friend when it comes to tackling tough branches and thick stems.

These modern marvels of engineering are a far cry from their ancient ancestors, but they still get the job done with ruthless efficiency. And while they may look intimidating at first glance, they’re surprisingly easy to use and maintain. Whether you’re an experienced horticulturist or just getting started on your gardening journey, these shears will have your plants looking trim in no time.

But don’t let that fool you into thinking there’s only one type of heavy-duty pruning shear out there. Different brands offer different features and levels of durability, so be sure to do your research before making a purchase. Some shears come with ergonomic handles for comfortable grip while others are made of rust-resistant material for long-term use. Ultimately, the choice is yours – so take some time to find the perfect pair for your needs!

Best Professional Pruning Shears

With one smooth, easy-to-control motion, a professional pruner can shape a garden to its full potential. They’re the ones with the experience and expertise to make sure each branch is given the perfect cut. And the best way for them to go about this is with professional pruning shears.

These shears are designed with high-grade steel blades and extendable handles for maximum maneuverability and control. They also come equipped with comfortable grips that keep your hands from slipping while you work. Plus, their ergonomic design makes them light enough to carry around with ease.

The sharp blades of professional pruning shears also have the ability to cut through branches up to 1 inch thick without any extra effort or strain on your hands. This means that even heavy-duty pruning can be done quickly and easily with these tools. It’s no wonder they’ve become a favorite amongst professionals in the gardening world!

Best Anvil Pruning Shears

To illustrate the different types of pruning shears, take the example of a homeowner trying to trim a tree in their backyard. While bypass pruning shears are a good choice for finer tasks, anvil pruning shears might be better suited for cutting through thicker branches. The fifth type of pruning shear is the anvil pruning shear, which has one sharp blade that presses against a flat edge or “anvil”. Anvil pruning shears are ideal for cutting through tough, thick branches and for making clean cuts without crushing the plant material.

The key difference between bypass and anvil pruning shears is that bypass ones have two blades that pass each other as they cut, while anvil ones have one blade that presses against the “anvil” to make a cut. When purchasing anvil pruning shears, it’s important to look for ones with comfortable grips and shock-absorbing handles that reduce strain on your hands. Additionally, it’s important to choose quality materials like stainless steel so you can use them again and again without worrying about rusting or corrosion.

Anvil pruning shears can be used not only by homeowners but also by professional gardeners and landscapers who need to make quick work of large projects. They offer more power than bypass models and can easily handle hardwood branches up to 1/2 inch thick or more depending on their design. With careful selection and maintenance, an excellent pair of anvil pruning shears can last many years with proper care. With this knowledge in mind, one can confidently choose the best tool for their gardening needs.

Best Bypass Pruning Shears

Moving on from the best anvil pruning shears, we turn to bypass pruning shears. These shears are equipped with two blades which slide past each other while cutting. They are excellent for making precise cuts, and are particularly useful when dealing with live plants or branches since they don’t crush or damage the plant material as easily as anvil-type blades would.

What makes bypass pruning shears stand out is their ability to make clean, precise cuts in tough materials like thick branches. They have a sharper cutting angle than anvil-style blades, so they can handle thicker materials more efficiently. Additionally, bypass pruning shears tend to be lighter and easier to use due to their smaller size and weight.

When choosing a pair of bypass pruning shears, it’s important to pay attention to the blade material, handle size and grip ergonomics, as well as overall build quality. Steel blades are ideal for heavy-duty tasks like cutting through thick branches; however, if you’re only using them occasionally then aluminum blades will suffice too. A comfortable handle design is also important since it helps reduce fatigue while you’re working in the garden.

Best Electric Pruning Shears

The seventh option in Good Housekeeping’s roundup of the best pruning shears is electric pruning shears. These are a great choice for anyone who needs to cut through thick and tough branches, such as those found on fruit trees. Electric pruning shears use an electric motor to power the blades, enabling more precise and efficient cutting than traditional bypass pruners. They’re also usually more lightweight, with some brands even offering cordless options that are perfect for more remote locations.

Electric pruning shears come in both single-handed and double-handed models, depending on the user’s needs. Some have adjustable blade lengths and angles, allowing users to create different cuts for different tasks. Additionally, many electric pruners come equipped with safety features like blade guards or covers to protect users from accidental cuts.

Overall, while electric pruning shears can be pricier than their manual counterparts, they offer a great deal of convenience and efficiency when it comes to trimming branches quickly and accurately. Plus, when taken care of properly these tools can last for years – making them well worth the investment for anyone looking for a reliable set of pruners. With that said, let’s move on to look at our next option: best long-reach pruning shears.

Best Long-Reach Pruning Shears

If you’re looking to reach those hard-to-get branches, then long-reach pruning shears are a must-have. Like a lighthouse beacon illuminating the dark sea of overgrown trees, these tools will give any gardener the ability to trim and shape with maximum efficiency.

These shears provide an extra bit of length, allowing for better maneuverability and control when cutting thicker branches. They come in various sizes, so whether you’re dealing with small shrubs or large trees, there’s a pair of shears that can help you get the job done. The sharp blades are designed to easily slice through tough stems, making it easier to shape and prune your garden without having to struggle or strain.

When shopping for long-reach pruning shears, be sure to check out reviews from fellow gardeners for product recommendations and tips on how to use them correctly. With their extended handles and durable construction, these tools make it easier than ever before to turn your garden into a thing of beauty. Now let’s move onto what telescoping pruning shears have in store!

Best Telescoping Pruning Shears

The ninth best pruning shear option, according to gardening experts, are telescoping pruning shears. Telescoping pruning shears are perfect for those who need a tool that can reach taller branches and shrubs. These shears feature an extendable handle, allowing users to adjust the length of the handles to suit their needs. The blades are typically made of hardened steel, meaning they will last longer and provide a precise cut every time.

This type of pruner is ideal for those who need to reach higher branches or cut through thicker stems and branches. It’s important to note that telescoping pruning shears require more effort than standard hand pruners since they have much longer handles. However, this additional effort is worth it if you want precise cuts in hard-to-reach places.

Overall, telescoping pruning shears are a great choice for gardeners looking for long-reach tools that can get into tight spots and make clean cuts every time. They may require more effort than traditional hand pruners but the extra work is well worth it when you see your finished product!

Best Ratchet Pruning Shears

As a gardener, finding the perfect tool for pruning is essential. It’s like finding the needle in a haystack; you need to look through all the options before choosing one that best suits your needs. For those looking for a pair of pruning shears that are both precise and efficient, ratchet pruning shears are the way to go.

Ratchet pruning shears have become increasingly popular due to their ease of use and efficiency. As opposed to traditional scissors, these shears have a ratcheting mechanism which allows them to cut through thicker branches with minimal effort; this makes them ideal for those who may have small hands or limited strength. In addition, they typically come with replaceable blades so that you can quickly swap out dull blades for sharper ones when needed.

These shears are also designed with safety in mind; they feature ergonomic handles which provide comfortable grip and control while protecting your hands from fatigue and strain. Furthermore, many models include safety locks so you can secure them after use without worrying about accidental cuts or snags. All in all, these features make ratchet pruning shears an ideal choice for anyone looking for an effective and safe way to trim their plants.

No matter what kind of tools you choose for your gardening needs, it’s important to take into account how well they’ll suit your particular situation. Ratchet pruning shears offer a great combination of effectiveness, safety, and ease-of-use, making them an excellent choice for many gardeners.

Best Pruning Shears For Small Hands

When it comes to pruning shears, one size does not always fit all. Gardeners with small hands may need specially designed pruning shears to get the job done right. The best pruning shears for small hands are those that provide maximum comfort and effectiveness.

The Fiskars PowerGear2 Pruners are a great choice for gardeners who have smaller hands. These pruners feature patented technology which allows them to cut three times more efficiently than traditional models. They also come with an ergonomic handle that is designed to minimize strain on the wrist and hand. Additionally, the blades are made of hardened steel, making them durable enough for any gardening task.

Overall, these Fiskars PowerGear2 Pruners provide a great combination of comfort and efficiency for gardeners with small hands who need quality pruning shears. They are well-designed and constructed from high-quality materials, so they will last through many gardening sessions without breaking or dulling quickly. With these pruners in hand, gardeners can enjoy their outdoor projects without worrying about uncomfortable tools or inefficient results. With this in mind, transitioning into the next section about finding the best budget pruning shears should be an easy task.

Best Budget Pruning Shears

Are you looking for the best budget pruning shears? Look no further! This selection of affordable shears is nothing short of a miracle. With pruning shears that are as effective as these, it’s almost too good to be true.

The range of budget-friendly options on offer here is simply astounding. From traditional models to modern designs, there’s something for everyone and every garden size. Not only are they incredibly effective, but they’re also incredibly affordable. You’ll be able to cut through branches with ease and precision without breaking the bank.

These budget-friendly pruning shears provide the perfect combination of quality and affordability – perfect for those who don’t want to compromise on either factor. With these shears in hand, you can easily tackle whatever gardening job comes your way – whether it’s trimming shrubs or shaping hedges. So what are you waiting for? Get your hands on some of these amazing budget pruning shears today!

Ready to get started? Let’s move on to the next section about finding the best pruning shears for left-handed gardeners…

Best Pruning Shears For Left-Handed Gardeners

For many left-handed gardeners, regular pruning shears can be difficult to use. Luckily, there are a number of options designed specifically for left-handed folks. We’ll look at some of the best pruning shears for left-handed gardeners available today.

The Fiskars Softgrip Pruner is an excellent option. It’s made from high-grade carbon steel and has an ergonomic handle that helps reduce hand fatigue while you work. The blades have a non-stick coating that makes it easier to cut through thick branches and stems. Plus, the soft grip handle helps make it more comfortable to use for longer periods of time.

The ARS Long Reach Pruner is another great choice for left-handed gardeners. It has a long reach and curved blades that make it easy to get into tight spots, and the ergonomic handle ensures comfort even during long pruning sessions. Plus, its lightweight design means it won’t tire out your hands as quickly as other models might.

These two pruners are great options for left-handed gardeners looking for a reliable pair of pruning shears. They’re both easy to use, comfortable, and durable enough to last through plenty of gardening tasks. Now let’s take a look at some of the best comfort-grip pruning shears available on the market today.

Best Comfort-Grip Pruning Shears

When it comes to gardening, comfort is key. For left-handed gardeners, finding pruning shears that fit their needs can be a challenge. But thankfully, there are options available for them as well. The next item on the list of best pruning shears according to experts is comfort-grip pruning shears.

Comfort-grip pruning shears are designed with ergonomic handles and cushioned grips that make trimming plants much more comfortable. They come in different sizes and styles to suit any gardener’s needs. The handles are also made from high-quality materials such as aluminum and rubber, making them durable and long lasting. With these shears in your hand, you’ll feel like you have complete control over your plants.

These types of pruning shears are the perfect choice for both right-handed and left-handed gardeners alike. They make cutting through thick branches easier and faster while minimizing strain on the hands. And they’re also lightweight enough to carry around without feeling too bulky or heavy. With all these features, comfort-grip pruning shears are worth considering when shopping for the best pruning shears for your gardening needs.

Now that we’ve gone over some of the best pruning shear options available, let’s take a look at the care and maintenance required for them.

Care And Maintenance Of Pruning Shears

Properly caring for and maintaining pruning shears will ensure their longevity and that they last for years to come. It’s important to inspect your pruning shears after each use for any dirt, rust, or damage, as this can affect their performance. Cleaning the blades with soapy water and drying them off after each use is a great way to prevent any rust or dirt build-up. Additionally, lubricating the blades with a light oil twice a year will help prevent rusting and keep them running smoothly.

Sharpening your pruning shears regularly is also an important part of maintenance. This can be done by using a sharpening stone or file specifically designed for garden tools. If you don’t feel comfortable sharpening on your own, you can also take them to a professional for sharpening services. Additionally, if there are any bent parts or broken pieces, replacing them is necessary in order to maintain the integrity of the tool.

Storing your pruning shears in a dry place when not in use will also help extend their life span significantly. Keeping them out of extreme temperatures, high humidity environments, and away from harsh chemicals or solvents will help protect them from corrosion and other damage. With proper care and maintenance of your pruning shears, you’ll be able to enjoy using them year after year with minimal upkeep required.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Should A Pair Of Pruning Shears Last?

It is important to know how long a pair of pruning shears should last, especially if you are an avid gardener. Gardening experts suggest that a good pair of pruning shears should last between three and five years depending on their use and the care they receive. To get the most out of your pruning shears, it is best to regularly inspect them for signs of wear and tear, and oil them frequently to keep them in top condition.

Keeping your pruning shears sharp is also key to getting the most out of them. Dull blades can make it difficult to cut through branches. It is recommended that you sharpen them once or twice a year with a specialized sharpening tool or stone. If using an electric sharpener, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully as using too much pressure can damage the blades over time.

To ensure that your pair of pruning shears lasts for as long as possible, it is important to practice proper maintenance and use them correctly when gardening. Regularly cleaning and oiling the blades, sharpening regularly, and storing properly in a dry environment will all help extend the life-span of your pruning shears. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy your garden for many years to come!

Is It Better To Buy Professional Or Standard Pruning Shears?

It is understandable to question whether professional or standard pruning shears are better, since both can get the job done. However, when it comes to pruning shears, investing in the right tool is worth the money. Many gardening experts recommend buying professional pruning shears for their comfort and performance.

One of the common objections to buying professional-grade pruning shears is that they are too expensive. This may be true at face value; however, one should consider that these tools last longer than standard shears, which means they will save you money in the long run. Professional shears are designed with materials that remain sharper and resist rusting better than standard shears do, so you don’t have to pay for replacements as often.

Choosing professional pruning shears will also help make your gardening tasks easier and more enjoyable. They are lightweight and ergonomically designed for comfortable use even over long periods of time. With a higher level of control and precision than standard tools provide, you’ll be able to achieve beautiful results faster. So if you’re serious about your gardening projects, investing in quality pruning shears is definitely worth it!

Are There Any Safety Precautions To Consider When Using Pruning Shears?

When it comes to pruning shears, safety should always be top of mind. In fact, according to a recent survey, almost 90% of gardeners said they take extra precautions when using pruning tools. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, it’s important to understand the potential risks.

Using the wrong type of pruning shear for the job can lead to injuries such as cuts and scrapes, or even more serious wounds. It’s also important to wear protective clothing like gloves and goggles when handling sharp blades. Additionally, make sure your shears are in good condition by cleaning and oiling them regularly, and replacing them if they are damaged or worn out.

It’s also essential to take into account the weight of the pruning shears before you buy them. Heavier duty shears may be necessary for larger branches but can be too cumbersome for smaller ones. Consider what kind of vegetation you’ll be cutting most often and choose accordingly. Taking these precautions will help ensure that you have a safe experience every time you use your pruning shears.

What Is The Difference Between Anvil And Bypass Pruning Shears?

When it comes to gardening tools, pruning shears are a must-have! They can make even the most tedious of tasks seem like a stroll in the park. But before you reach for your pruning shears, there’s one important decision to make: anvil or bypass?

Anvil and bypass pruning shears might look similar at first glance, but they couldn’t be more different. Think of anvil pruning shears like a hammer – they work by crushing the stem against an anvil-style cutting blade. Bypass pruners, on the other hand, have two curved blades that pass by each other in a scissor-like motion.

The decision between the two styles of pruners is almost as daunting as choosing between a hammer and a saw! But understanding their differences will help you select the right tool for any job. Anvil pruners are best for thick branches, while bypass pruners are ideal for softer stems and delicate plants. If you’re looking for ultimate precision, then bypass is definitely your best bet – it offers unparalleled accuracy that no other tool could ever dream of achieving!

How Often Should Pruning Shears Be Sharpened?

Sharpening pruning shears? That’s a funny thought – it’s like polishing your shovel or shining up your rake! As gardeners, we’re not usually accustomed to taking such care of our tools. But here’s the thing: if you want your pruning shears to remain sharp and in good condition for many years to come, then you’ll have to sharpen them regularly.

So how often should you sharpen your shears? Well, it depends on how much you use them and on the type of shears you own. If you have anvil type pruners, they need to be sharpened more often than bypass types. Generally speaking, though, most experts recommend sharpening your pruners once a year or after every 50-100 cuts.

To keep your pruning shears in peak condition, be sure to clean and oil them after each use – this will help keep the blades from rusting and will also make them easier to sharpen when the time comes. Also remember that dull blades can cause damage to plants so don’t wait too long before honing those blades!

Conclusion

Pruning shears are an essential tool for gardeners of any skill level. Not only do they help keep plants healthy and attractive, but they also increase safety when pruning trees and shrubs. With the right pair of pruning shears, you can ensure that your garden looks its best all year long.

When it comes to choosing a pair of pruning shears, there are several factors to consider such as type, sharpening frequency, and safety precautions. Gardening experts recommend selecting a pair of professional pruning shears that feature anvil or bypass blades for the best results. Additionally, it is important to remember to sharpen them regularly in order to maintain their efficiency and longevity. On average, quality pruning shears should last anywhere from 5-10 years with proper care.

In summary, investing in quality pruning shears can make all the difference when it comes to gardening success. By taking the time to research and compare different models before making a purchase, you can ensure that your garden will look its best for years to come!