How to Handle Pruning Shears to Avoid Damage

Pruning shears, also known as hand pruners or secateurs, are essential tools for gardeners and landscapers alike. They are designed to trim and shape plants, shrubs, and small branches, promoting healthy growth and enhancing the overall appearance of your garden. However, improper handling of pruning shears can lead to tool damage, injury, and poor pruning results. Understanding how to properly handle these tools is crucial for extending their lifespan and achieving clean cuts that benefit your plants.

In this article, we will explore the best practices for using pruning shears, covering everything from selecting the right tool to maintenance tips that prevent damage.

Understanding Your Pruning Shears

Before diving into handling techniques, it’s important to understand the anatomy and types of pruning shears available:

• Bypass Pruners: These have two curved blades that pass by each other like scissors. They are ideal for live plants because they make clean cuts without crushing stems.
• Anvil Pruners: These consist of a straight blade that closes onto a flat surface (the anvil). They work well for dead wood but can crush live stems.
• Ratchet Pruners: Designed for thicker branches, these pruners use a ratchet mechanism to increase cutting power in stages.

Choosing the right type for your tasks is the first step in preventing damage.

Selecting Quality Pruning Shears

Investing in high-quality pruning shears reduces the risk of damage during use. Look for shears made from durable materials such as stainless steel or carbon steel with a comfortable grip. Features like replaceable blades and an adjustable pivot bolt enhance longevity.

Avoid cheap models with flimsy construction as they are more prone to bending, dulling, or breaking under pressure.

Proper Handling Techniques

1. Use the Right Tool for the Job

One of the most common causes of pruning shear damage is using them beyond their intended capacity. Hand pruners are designed for branches up to about ¾ inch thick. For thicker branches, use loppers or a pruning saw instead.

Cutting branches that are too thick forces extra strain on the blades and pivot mechanism, leading to dulling or breakage.

2. Hold Shears Correctly

Hold the pruning shears firmly but not too tightly. The handle should fit comfortably in your palm with fingers wrapped around it securely. Position your thumb on one handle and your fingers on the other, applying smooth pressure when closing the blades.

Avoid gripping too tightly as this causes hand fatigue and reduces control.

3. Position Blades Properly

When making cuts, position the blades so that the sharp bypass blade passes cleanly across the branch against the thicker anvil or counter-blade (in bypass models). For anvil pruners, ensure the blade closes fully onto the anvil surface without gap.

Cut at a slight angle rather than straight across to promote better healing in plants and prevent blade slippage.

4. Apply Controlled Pressure

Squeeze the handles steadily without forcing them. If you find yourself struggling to cut through a branch, stop immediately and switch to a more appropriate tool.

Forcing the shears can damage both blades and hinges.

5. Cut at Appropriate Locations

Avoid cutting very close to stems or trunks where possible. Leave a small collar of about ¼ inch around where you make your cut to avoid damaging plant tissues unnecessarily. Clean cuts heal faster and reduce infection risks.

Maintenance Practices to Prevent Damage

Proper maintenance is key to keeping pruning shears sharp and functional over time.

1. Clean After Each Use

Plant sap, dirt, and moisture can accumulate on blades after use causing rust or corrosion. Wipe blades clean with a damp cloth immediately after pruning. For sticky sap residues, use rubbing alcohol or a mild soapy solution.

Dry thoroughly before storing.

2. Sharpen Blades Regularly

Dull blades require more force and crush plants rather than slicing cleanly — increasing wear and tear on both tool and plant. Use a sharpening stone or diamond file to maintain sharp edges on blades.

Sharpen at an angle consistent with the original bevel (usually around 20–30 degrees). Always check manufacturer instructions for blade care specifics.

3. Lubricate Moving Parts

Apply lubrication such as light machine oil or specialized tool lubricant to pivot points regularly. This keeps movement smooth and prevents rust formation on metal joints.

Wipe off excess oil to avoid attracting dirt when stored.

4. Tighten Loose Screws and Bolts

Check screws, bolts, and springs frequently as they may loosen with use. Tighten them carefully using appropriate tools but avoid overtightening which could hinder blade movement or cause damage.

5. Store Properly

Store pruning shears in a dry place away from moisture — ideally hanging up or in a protective sheath. Exposure to damp conditions promotes rusting and dulling of blades.

For long-term storage during off-seasons, coat blades lightly with oil before putting away.

Safety Tips While Handling Pruning Shears

To avoid personal injury while using pruning shears:

• Always wear gloves to protect hands from thorny plants or accidental nicks.
• Keep fingers clear of blade paths.
• Cut away from your body rather than toward it.
• Keep children away from tools.
• Inspect shears before use for any cracks, loose parts, or rust that could cause failure during cutting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues That Cause Damage

Sticking Blades

If blades stick together when opening/closing:

• Clean off sap or debris buildup.
• Lubricate pivot joint.
• Check if springs are damaged or missing; replace if necessary.

Dull Blades

Signs include requiring excessive force or crushing instead of cutting:

• Sharpen blades promptly.
• If severely damaged (chipped edges), consider replacing blades if possible.

Loose Pivot Bolt

Causes wobbling in blade alignment leading to poor cuts:

• Tighten bolt securely but ensure smooth blade operation remains possible.
• Replace worn washers if applicable.

Conclusion

Handling pruning shears correctly is essential not only for protecting your tools but also for ensuring healthy plant growth through clean cuts. By selecting quality pruners appropriate for your needs, holding them properly, applying controlled cutting techniques, performing regular maintenance, and following safety precautions you can greatly extend their lifespan while preventing damage both to your equipment and your garden plants.

Consistent care will keep your pruning shears sharp, rust-free, and reliable season after season — making gardening safer and more enjoyable overall. Remember: treat your tools well, and they’ll repay you with years of excellent performance!