We Know: How to Buy Pruning Shears What are Pruning Shears for? Pruning shears, known to horticulturists as secateurs, are used to cut flowers, shrubbery, bushes and thin tree branches. An essential tool for gardeners, a good pair of pruning shears can make your job a little easier, but all the options available can be overwhelming. What are You Trying to Prune? When you are looking to buy a pair of pruning shears, the first thing you will need to know is the nature of what you want to prune. Most gardeners will be looking at a general pair of pruning shears that can be used in many different jobs, but considering what you will be using them for most will help you choose. What Type of Shears do You Need? Basic handheld pruning shears come in two styles, bypass hand pruners, and anvil pruners. Bypass pruners use a scissor action and are made to cut green or fresh wood. Anvil pruners have a cutting blade that comes down in the center of a hard metal or plastic anvil. They are designed to dead or dry wood. Most gardeners will find that a bypass hand pruner is suited to their needs How Do You Decide Which Ones are Right for You? Comfort is key when selecting pruning shears. You will want to test out a few different brands to see which suits you best. When you open them, the handles should not extend past where your fingertips can reach. If more than one person will be using the shears, you will want to look for ones that have a grip adjustment that allows it to be changed for different sized hands. Also, check to make sure there is a quality locking mechanism for when the shears are not in use. More advanced pruning shears will use leverage to maximize the amount of force you have to apply while working. This can really make a difference in how sore your hands will be later on. How Much Are You Prepared to Spend? You don't have to splurge on professional grade shears, but it is important to buy a high quality pair that makes easy even cuts on your branches. More expensive pruning shears will stay sharp for years. Consider all tool purchases as an investment you will use for years to come and be prepared to buy the nicest pair that you can reasonably afford. Pruning shears can range in price from under ten dollars to over $100.
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