Should I Use Hedge Trimmers or A Pole Saw?

Rakes, hoes, lawnmowers, and shovels are some of the most common and essential gadgets for every landscaper’s toolbox. From the thin branches of an Italian Cypress to the broad limbs of oak trees, there are a variety of tree trimming tools you could use to trim your trees. But sometimes, you might be unsure which one to use to get the job done. Should you pick a tree trimmer, or perhaps a more durable pole saw? Read on to learn how to determine which tool is best for the task. Here we’ll discuss some of the factors you should always keep in mind when choosing how to trim your trees.

What’s A Hedge Trimmer?

A hedge trimmer is an electrical device used to cut and shape isolated shrubs. Electric or gas-powered hedge trimmers are usually more powerful than handheld ones, cutting through branches up to an inch in thickness.

When Should I Use One?

Hedge trimmers are made especially for the thin twigs or leaves on a bush. Even though their blades are sharp, hedge trimmers are not usually powerful enough to cut through thick branches. If you primarily have large trees in your yard, a pole saw will likely be better suited for your needs.

What’s A Pole Saw?

A pole saw, which oftentimes takes the form of a chainsaw, is a handheld tree trimming device powered by gas, battery, or electricity. There are also non-electric pole saws that require manual action to operate. Pole saws are designed to tightly grip branches and provide a smooth cut.

Can Pole Saws Trim Trees?

Absolutely! Not only are pole saws more powerful than tree trimmers, but they can also increase your reach. Given the length of a pole saw, they can prune branches that you would otherwise need a step ladder to trim. So not only are you able to cut more branches on your own, but you also save time by not having to constantly reposition a ladder. Therefore, if your yard has an abundance of trees, especially medium-sized and larger, a pole saw would be beneficial. However, if some limbs are still too large to cut with your pole saw or out of reach, it’s safer to contact a professional arborist for assistance.

Alternative Options

When you don’t have a pole saw or tree trimmers at your disposal, a few other tools might come in handy.

Pruners

Pruners are small clippers that can slice skinny branches or stems of flowers. These tree trimming tools are spring-loaded and automatically open after each clip, making them operable with one hand. They can easily cut plants that are a half-inch or less in diameter, so if you’re looking to clip small pieces, go ahead and use this tool.

Loppers

Loppers are designed similarly to pruners, except they have longer handles, providing more leverage and the ability to cut slightly thicker branches (up to about two inches in diameter). This tree trimming tool requires two hands to operate as it does not automatically re-open after each cut.

Shears

Shears are similar to loppers in that they require two hands to operate, but they are often used for more delicate pruning of bushes and hedges. Although they don’t have the same power as loppers, they are meant to be open and closed quickly.

Need a Tree Specialist To Trim Your Trees?

LTRC-Tree Specialists take pride in helping clients with their tree issues. We specialize in a variety of services including tree trimming and shaping, tree care, and land clearance. We guarantee that we will work hard until you are satisfied with your home’s landscaping and the appearance of your trees. Visit our website or call us at (404) 977-4574.