Pruning shears (hand pruners) are fundamental instruments in gardening. Their primary function involves removing small branches, shaping woody plants, and eliminating deadwood. These tools are designed for precision, allowing gardeners to maintain plant health and desired form. Understanding how to properly select and handle these tools impacts the cleanliness of the cut and the overall vigor of the plant.
Matching the Shear Type to the Job
The two main designs are bypass and anvil shears, each suited for different material. Bypass pruners operate like scissors, featuring two curved blades that slide past each other to make a precise, slicing cut. This design minimizes tissue damage and is the preferred tool for pruning live, actively growing wood.
Anvil pruners have a straight blade that closes down onto a flat, fixed surface, often called the anvil. This action crushes the stem slightly, making them less suitable for living tissue. They are best reserved for removing dead, dried, or extremely woody material. Most hand pruners handle material no larger than a three-quarter inch diameter. Attempting to cut thicker branches risks damaging the tool’s mechanism and creating ragged cuts.
Preparing the Tool for Use
Before any cutting begins, the shears must be prepared to ensure plant health and user safety. Sterilizing the blades is a recommended practice, particularly when moving between different plants or after pruning diseased material. A solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol or a 10% bleach solution can be used to quickly wipe down the blades, eliminating pathogens.
Beyond sterilization, inspect the tool to confirm the locking mechanism is operational, preventing accidental injury. Wearing durable gardening gloves is also advisable, as they protect the hands from blisters and sharp debris. This preparation ensures the tool is safe and ready to deliver a clean cut without compromising the plant’s immune system.
Mastering the Cutting Technique
Proper cutting technique ensures the plant heals quickly and directs future growth effectively. When removing a branch, position the sharp cutting blade of a bypass shear against the wood that will remain on the plant. This ensures the cleanest possible surface on the remaining stem tissue, as the blunt side of the blade pushes onto the waste material. The goal is to make a single, decisive action, fully closing the blades through the stem without hesitation or twisting.
Positioning the Cut
Cuts made to reduce the length of a branch or cane should be positioned strategically just above a node or a bud. A node is a slight swelling where a leaf or bud is attached, indicating where new growth will emerge. Positioning the cut approximately one-quarter inch above this point allows the bud to heal without being damaged by the drying tissue of the cut end.
The angle of the cut is important, requiring a 45-degree slant sloping away from the bud. This angled surface prevents water from pooling directly on the cut, which can create an environment conducive to fungal growth and rot. Making the cut too close can damage the bud tissue, while cutting too far above the bud leaves a stub that will eventually die back.
Maximizing Leverage
Efficient use of the shear depends on maintaining proper hand position for maximum leverage. The stem being cut should be placed as close to the pivot point of the shears as possible, which requires the least amount of force. Holding the handles close to the ends amplifies the mechanical advantage, making it easier to slice cleanly through tougher material.
Using the tool’s full capacity minimizes hand strain and prevents the user from having to saw or crush the stem. For right-handed users, placing the thumb and forefinger around the handle allows for a firm, powerful grip that stabilizes the tool during the cut. This action ensures the cut surface is smooth, which is the most effective way for the plant to seal the wound.
Post-Pruning Care and Storage
Maintaining the pruning shears after use ensures they remain sharp and functional for the next task. Immediately after pruning, thoroughly clean the blades to remove sap, resin, and debris. Plant material left on the blades can harden and dull the cutting edge.
Once the blades are free of residue, they must be dried completely to prevent rust, which quickly degrades the metal. A light coat of mineral oil or WD-40 should then be applied to the blades and the pivot point. This protective layer repels moisture and lubricates the moving parts. Finally, the shears should be locked closed and stored in a dry location, protecting the sharp edge and preventing accidental contact.