Choosing Pruning Secateurs

Hand Pruners and Secateur Selection

• Choose a model that is comfortable and the right size for your hand. Using a pair of secateurs that are too big can cause strain.
• Check the position of the catch that lock them closed  and see how easy it is for you to move it. This is particularly important if you have reduced strength or flexibility in your hand and if you are left handed.
• Left handed secateurs work like left handed scissors. There are several types and makes including those manufactured by Felco.

Types of Secateurs

• Bypass secateurs, as pictured above,  are suitable for cutting delicate stems as the action is less likely to  bruise the stem. The cutting blade passes a blunt blade, this cutting blade should be nearest the plant when cutting so only the pruned stem is crushed.
• Anvil secateurs have a blade that cuts on to a flat surface. They are better for cutting hard woody stems. The blade is less likely to stick to the stem as it cuts.
• Ratchet secateurs allow you to make a cut by squeezing and releasing the handles a number of times until you are through the stem. The mechanism clicks and holds the blades in place so you make gradual progress rather than having to cut in one go.

Personal Recommendations and Comments

• Personal favourites are the bypass type that can get in close to the stems with the ‘nose’ .
• A safety catch on the top rather than the side is less likely to catch and is easy to operate.
• Revolving handle that move with your fingers are an unnecessary refinement.
• Try before you buy to get a pair that suit from a weight and feel point of view.
• Keep more than one  pair because even with bright coloured handles you will misplace them.

Check out Gardeners tips on using secateurs

Secateurs from Amazon.