How to Cut Live Branches Safely with a Lopper

Pruning live branches is an essential gardening and tree maintenance task that promotes healthy growth, improves the appearance of plants, and helps prevent disease. However, cutting live branches incorrectly can harm the plant or cause injury to the person performing the task. One of the best tools for safely cutting live branches is a lopper. In this article, we will explore how to use a lopper correctly and safely to prune live branches effectively.

Understanding the Purpose of Pruning Live Branches

Before diving into the technique, it’s important to understand why pruning live branches matters:

• Health Improvement: Removing dead or diseased parts prevents the spread of infection.
• Safety: Eliminating branches that could fall and cause damage.
• Shape and Growth: Encouraging better shape and more vigorous growth.
• Sunlight and Air Circulation: Allowing light and air to reach all parts of the plant.

Knowing what you want to achieve from pruning will guide your cutting choices.

What Is a Lopper?

A lopper is a type of hand pruner with long handles and strong blades designed for cutting medium-sized branches, typically up to 2 inches in diameter. Unlike hand pruners, loppers provide extra leverage, making it easier to cut thicker branches without exerting excessive force.

Types of Loppers

There are generally two types of loppers:

1. Bypass Loppers: These have two curved blades that pass by each other like scissors. They provide clean cuts ideal for live branches because they slice through the wood rather than crush it.

2. Anvil Loppers: These have one sharp blade that closes against a flat surface (the anvil). They can crush live wood and are better suited for dead branches.

For pruning live branches, bypass loppers are highly recommended.

Preparing for Safe Branch Cutting

Safety Gear

Before starting any pruning work, ensure you wear appropriate safety gear:

• Gloves: Protect your hands from thorns, splinters, and cuts.
• Eye Protection: Use safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Long Sleeves and Pants: To avoid scratches and insect bites.
• Proper Footwear: Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip to prevent slips.

Inspecting the Lopper

Make sure your lopper is in good working condition:

• The blades should be sharp for clean cuts.
• Handles should be sturdy and free from cracks.
• The pivot bolt should be tight but allow smooth operation.

Sharpening dull blades with a sharpening stone or file can make cutting easier and safer.

Assessing the Branch

Before cutting:

• Identify which branches must be removed.
• Avoid removing more than 25% of the live foliage at once to prevent stress on the plant.
• Consider the branch angle; avoid cutting too close or too far from the main trunk or parent branch.
• Look for any power lines or obstacles nearby.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cutting Live Branches with a Lopper

Step 1: Position Yourself Safely

Stand firmly on stable ground. Avoid overreaching or standing on unstable surfaces like ladders unless necessary and safe. Maintain balance at all times.

Step 2: Grip the Lopper Properly

Hold each handle firmly with both hands. Position your hands comfortably along the handles so you have maximum leverage without straining your wrists.

Step 3: Prepare to Cut the Branch

When cutting larger branches (close to 2 inches):

• Use a three-cut method to prevent bark tearing:
• First Cut (Undercut): About 6-12 inches from the branch’s base on the underside; cut about one-third through the branch.
• Second Cut (Top Cut): A few inches further out from the undercut; cut all the way through from top down so that this section falls off cleanly.
• Third Cut (Final Cut): Remove the stub by cutting just outside the branch collar (the swollen area where branch meets trunk).

For smaller branches (less than 1 inch), a single clean cut just outside the branch collar is sufficient.

Step 4: Make a Clean Cut

Position the lopper blades at a slight angle (about 45 degrees) so water will run off rather than pool on the cut surface, reducing disease risk. Apply steady pressure, don’t saw back and forth as you would with a saw; instead, use gradual squeezing motion until the branch cuts through.

Avoid crushing or splintering by ensuring blades are sharp and aligned correctly.

Step 5: Remove Cut Branches Safely

Once a branch is cut, step back immediately as it may fall unexpectedly if not fully supported. Dispose of cuttings properly to keep your work area tidy and reduce hazards.

Aftercare for Pruned Branches

Treating Cut Surfaces

Generally, it is not necessary to paint or seal pruning cuts on healthy trees because natural healing processes protect them. However, clean cuts heal faster than ragged ones.

For some species susceptible to infections, consult local arborist guidelines about using pruning sealants.

Cleaning Tools

After use:

• Wipe blades with rubbing alcohol or disinfectant especially if you pruned diseased branches.
• Keep blades dry and store loppers in a dry place to prevent rusting.

Additional Tips for Safe Branch Cutting with a Lopper

• Never attempt to cut branches thicker than your loppers’ capacity; use pruning saws or call professional arborists instead.
• Avoid cutting wet branches as they can slip more easily.
• Be mindful of where you dispose of cut material; some may attract pests if left near healthy plants.
• Always plan your cuts so that you don’t leave dangerous stubs that might break off later unpredictably.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Loppers on Live Branches

1. Cutting Too Close or Too Far from Branch Collar: This can delay healing or cause decay.
2. Using Dull Blades: Leads to crushed stems which take longer to heal.
3. Over-pruning: Removing too many branches at once stresses plants severely.
4. Ignoring Safety Gear: Can result in injuries from sharp tools or falling debris.
5. Improper Disposal: Leaving pruned material near valuable plants can lead to disease transmission.

Conclusion

Pruning live branches using a lopper is an effective way to maintain healthy plants when done safely and correctly. By choosing the right tool, wearing appropriate safety gear, understanding proper cutting techniques including where and how to cut, and following up with good aftercare practices, you can ensure your pruning efforts benefit both you and your plants.

Remember that patience and care go hand in hand with successful pruning, never rush, stay aware of your surroundings, and always prioritize safety for yourself and your garden’s health. With these guidelines in mind, picking up your loppers will become an enjoyable activity that yields thriving greenery!