A hedge trimmer is a powered tool designed for maintaining the shape and size of shrubs and hedges. It uses rapidly reciprocating blades to efficiently shear through new, smaller growth, making upkeep quicker than using manual shears. Operating a hedge trimmer safely and effectively requires specific knowledge and preparation. Proper technique ensures a clean cut for the plant’s health and achieves the desired aesthetic results without damaging the user or the equipment.
Essential Safety and Pre-Trimming Checklist
Before trimming, gather the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Safety glasses or goggles shield eyes from flying debris, such as small twigs and wood chips. Sturdy work gloves protect hands from cuts and abrasions while providing a firm grip on the tool.
Wear long pants and long sleeves to protect skin from scratches and clippings. For gas or electric trimmers, hearing protection like earplugs or ear defenders is necessary to prevent damage from significant noise. Before starting the trimmer, inspect the work area and clear tripping hazards such as hoses, toys, or tools.
Check the trimmer to confirm the blades are sharp, properly secured, and free from damage, as dull blades can tear plant material and strain the motor. If using a corded electric model, the power cord must be kept behind the user and away from the cutting path. For all models, ensure all bolts and handles are tight before the motor is engaged.
Mastering the Basic Cutting Motion
Use a wide, balanced stance with feet shoulder-width apart for stability and control. The trimmer must be held firmly with both hands, using the designated front and rear handles for safety and leverage. This two-handed grip keeps hands away from the rapidly moving blades.
Proper technique involves using long, continuous, sweeping motions to create a smooth, even surface without choppy indentations. When trimming the sides of a hedge, start at the bottom and work upward, guiding the clippings down to the ground. For the top surface, hold the blade at a slight angle of about 10 degrees to encourage cuttings to be swept away from the hedge.
Never force the blades through thick, woody branches, as this can damage the trimmer’s mechanism and leave ragged cuts on the plant. Hedge trimmers are designed for shearing new, soft growth, typically less than a half-inch in diameter. Any branches exceeding the trimmer’s capacity should be cut first with hand pruners or loppers to avoid stressing the tool.
Techniques for Shaping Different Bushes
The most important technique for bush health is tapering the sides so the base of the hedge is slightly wider than the top. This functional shaping ensures sunlight reaches the lower foliage, preventing the lower branches from becoming sparse or bare. Without this slight angle, the top growth shades the bottom, leading to dieback.
To achieve a formal, flat-topped hedge, set up a guideline using stakes and a taut string line across the top of the bush. This line provides a visual reference to keep the horizontal cut perfectly level across the entire length. Hold the trimmer parallel to this guide while walking slowly, moving the blades horizontally in a steady motion.
Creating rounded or sculpted shapes requires a fluid technique, relying on smooth, curved motions rather than straight lines. To form a rounded top, tilt the trimmer slightly and move it in an arc, following the desired curve of the bush. For a uniform rounded or angled edge, tilt the blade to match the intended slope, blending the vertical and horizontal cuts.
Cleanup and Hedge Trimmer Maintenance
Immediately following trimming, manage the debris created. Raking or sweeping up the clippings from the ground and off the bush surfaces promotes better air circulation and prevents the growth of mold or fungus. Using a tarp beneath the hedge beforehand can significantly simplify cleanup.
Proper maintenance of the blades is necessary for performance and longevity. Plant sap and resin, particularly from conifers, accumulate on the blades, causing friction and hindering cutting action. Clean the blades by wiping them down with a resin solvent or a cloth dampened with warm, soapy water after disconnecting the power supply.
Once the blades are clean and completely dry, apply a specialized lubricant or machine oil to reduce friction and protect the metal from rust. A few drops of oil or a light spray along the blade length, followed by briefly running the trimmer for a second or two, helps distribute the lubricant evenly. Store the trimmer in a dry location, ideally with the blade guard in place.