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In This Article
Better Homes & Gardens
Whatever type of landscape painting blueprint you pick out , as a householder , the goal is to keep the hedges in your one thousand neat and tidy with regular trimming of growth and removal of broken branches to maintain the look of a well - kept belongings .
With the correct hedgerow trimmer joist , cut branches andmaintaining shrubsare realizable tasks for the weekend to - do inclination to get done chop-chop and safely .
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
To find the best choice for your yard , we tested various modeling and verbalise toMichael Ng , New York Botanical Gardens ’ manager of arboretum and earth , andBrian Shaunfield , Lowe ’s store manager , on what to look for in a hedgerow trimmer joist .
Before grease one’s palms a hedge trimmer joist , ensure to check the system of weights to ensure you ’ll be able to safely control the pecker while landscape gardening . “ consumer should make certain they ’re easy work with a car before it is turn on , " Shaunfield says . ” This will assure the homeowner has full control when go the equipment . ”
What We Tested
To find the best hedging trimmer , we tested seven example in our own yard . We evaluated each manakin ground on its performance , ease of use , figure , and value . To instruct more about how we tested hedge trimmers , check outour testing processbelow .
Our Top Picks
Best Gas
Husqvarna Husqvarna Gas Hedge Trimmer
This trimmer joist has the office and brand gap to cut through woodier shrub .
This trimmer is the most expensive alternative on our list and heavy to handle when reaching for high branches .
When the yard study problem calls for trimming tall hedges , this gas - power hedge trimmer with a 26 - inch double - sided cutter legal profession on a 32 - inch shaft will get to what is want . We tested the Husqvarna on a taller , leafy , thin - stemmed hedge , and the long blade length reached and cut through the branch with comfort . The stainless steel double - activity blade take care of trimming work and allow for clean deletion in either direction .
Credit: Lowe’s
The trimmer started up quick after adding gas , and it includes a belittled bottleful of oil to add with the fuel . After clip a hedging and some small branches in our yard , we still had fuel left , so we ’re convinced the cooler is large enough to last through even reduce tasks . Another plus is the engine position that directs exhaust system exhaust fumes away from you while in use . And like any gas - powered creature , this hedge trimmer was garish , but it was n’t any noisier than we ’d expect .
At 13.5 pounds , this is the heavy hedge trimming capacitor we recommend , which is n’t surprising as gas - power model — you’ll need an electric trimmer if you ’re looking for a lightweight tool . However , we felt it was well - balanced and not overly arduous .
If you ’re looking for a powerful , with child - tariff hedge trimming capacitor , this model in spades go the bill and we think it ’s a solid choice if you have a larger yard with a lot of shrubbery to trim . That being said , it ’s on the pricier side , and gas - powered modelling also need a decorous amount of maintenance over sentence . For those who do n’t need to trim their shrub as often , a minuscule option may be a better fit .
At 26 inches, the long blade length reaches and cuts through branches with ease.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
production detail : Blade Type : Dual action |Power:25.4cc X - torq locomotive engine |Blade Length:26 in . |Blade Gap:0.94 in . |Weight:13.5 lbs .
Best Corded
CRAFTSMAN 22-in Corded Electric Hedge Trimmer
It ’s lightweight and balanced to use for small trimming undertaking and cleaning up of bushes .
This modelling calls for an extension cord for use , which may feel limiting .
When the to - do list telephone call for trimming and rationalise a group of hedging and bush , this 22 - inch cord hedge trimmer from Craftsman will facilitate get the job done with the strength of a 3.8 - ampere motor and duple - action blade , which can trim down branch up to 1.6 inches thick .
We used this pruner for shaping branches and bush in our 1000 . The protracted leaf blade length made it easy to maneuver when cutting farseeing branches for hard - to - contact trimming jobs on tall shrubs , yet we were able to maintain controller of the equipment thanks to the stabilizing handle guard .
In addition to effectively edit out , this trimming capacitor go without unreasonable haphazardness . As a corded good example , you ’ll need to supply your own extension cord to pass your shrubbery , which is more limiting than gas or battery - operate models . However , we did n’t heed dealing with a electric cord for the benefit of a lighter piece of equipment .
Product Details : Blade eccentric : Dual action |Power:3.8 - amp motor |Blade Length:22 in . |Blade Gap:1.5 - in . hack capacity |Weight:6.82 pound .
Best Cordless
RYOBI Lithium-Ion Cordless Hedge Trimmer
The machine did n’t vibrate and cause redundant tiredness .
The runtime of 21 proceedings might not be a sufficient amount of time for some homeowners when it comes to getting all the work done in the chiliad .
With the power to easily trim hedge , shrub , and bushes , the Ryobi 18V One+ organisation with pruner kit provide up to 21 proceedings of runtime with the let in battery . This equipment can handle the task of stocky hedges and arm with 22 - inch blade and a ¾-inch cut content .
We were nearly set up and quick to go right out of the box with this hedging trimming capacitor ; the education were straightforward , and the battery only took about an hour to charge .
This tool is lightweight to use for yard work and we were able to well operate it one - handed to attain up to the acme of tallweigela bushes , as well as garnish around siding and downspouts to access hard - to - reach spots . The ability to use the trimmer joist in both guidance also facilitate maneuver tight spaces .
The lightweight design and balance of this peter was comfortable for us to use even with the battery attach — it ’s not blade- or torso - cloggy . We liked this hedge trimming capacitor for clip shrub and boxwoods in the landscape painting and found it comfortable to use for around 20 minutes at a fourth dimension . There also was n’t any noticeable vibration , foreclose fatigue while working .
If you have a draw of shrubbery to garnish , we recommend grabbing an excess bombardment as the runtime may not last for a farsighted landscaping session . However , specially considering the Leontyne Price , it ’s still one of the best hedge pruner we tested .
Product Details : Blade Type : Dual action |Power:19V 2 Ah battery 3200 SPM |Blade Length:22 in . |Blade Gap:0.75 in . |Weight:6.4 lbs .
Best Small
Worx 8-Inch Cordless Electric Hedge Trimmer
It ’s the light option we tested .
It struggled with toughened woody sections .
When you desire to take precaution of unsubdivided K employment , The Worx Power Share Garden Shear Shrubber is a groovy option . Its compact sizing allowed us to well wield the trimmer with one hand , and the short twofold - action blade blade made it maneuverable into tight spaces between a mathematical group of shrubs and a porch without much hassle .
The trimmer joist comes in the pasturage shearer configuration , but it ’s dewy-eyed to shift out fastening to use the hedging trimmer blade . We only needed a few hours to bill the battery and get to work trimmingJapanese spireaand other shrub in our yard .
A trigger and a release on the hold provide the major power , and this feature film also prevents it from incidentally being switched on ; we felt dependable and in control while using this dick . The vane also include brakes to prevent damage in case you run into a big branch . Two sheaths are included to protect the hedging trimmer joist and forage shearer while in storage .
This trimmer worked swimmingly cut through soft development on both yew and spirea shrub but struggled with tough woody parts . Still , we were capable to get mostly clean cuts and overall , the shrubs had a neat and goodly appearance after cut back was complete . As for a noise tier , this trimmer operates quiet enough at a low Movement of Holy Warriors .
We appreciate that the battery took just about two time of day to charge . And after lop severall large yews and a spirea for over a half hour , the bombardment indicator light still present full .
Cartesian product detail : Blade Type : Dual action |Power:20V battery |Blade Length:4 in . |Blade Gap:5/16 in . |Weight:3.2 lbs .
Best Pole
Ryobi Cordless Battery Pole Hedge Trimmer
This trimmer is a versatile shaft for postulate upkeep of cutting tasks at different heights .
When working on tall shrub , this tool becomes weighty to hold up high up for disregard subdivision and trimming .
When the cut down job call for trimming at varying altitude for the President George W. Bush and shrub in the landscape , a shaft that hold out your reach will help get the job done without drag the ladder out of the service department . The Ryobi 40V Pole Hedge Trimmer was our darling for marvelous trim undertaking as it extends up to 8 animal foot .
We contract to function with this pruner to take precaution of boxwood , spirea , and taller hedges . A pivoting head help to work at various angles and heights . The foresightful battery living — over an hour — was sufficient for the amount of prison term needed to get snip work done . We like the adjustable step this pruner allow us to maintain thanks to the pressure control condition trigger .
We find the 18 - inch twofold - action blade and variable speeding selection were a good tantrum for the job of cutting and trimming branch ⅝ inches or less in diam . However , we did find the tool fight when used on buddy-buddy branches .
Like with any perch trimmer , we experienced some fatigue duty after hold back it high for longer periods , especially since it has a higher weight than other hedging trimmers we tested .
Credit: Amazon
Product Details : Blade Type : Dual military action |Power:40V battery |Blade Length:18 in . |Blade Gap:5/8 - in . cut capacitance |Weight:9.7 lb .
The Bottom Line
After testing seven hedging trimmers , we recommend theHusqvarna 525HF3S. It ’s a powerful , heavy - duty choice that can handle cut a lot of shrubbery in your K . If you ’re front for a light , electric manikin , we recommend theCraftsman 22 - inch Corded Electric Hedge Trimmeror the cordlessRyobi 18V One+ organization with pruner kit .
Our Testing Process
We put seven hedge trimmers to shape with one thousand work tasks include cut large and small branches , trimming and shaping shrubs and George Bush . We incorporated a intermixture of battery , cord , and gas framework for examination . We looked to pop brand names in the lawn space for our list and incorporated a variety of cost point .
We tested the hedging trimmers on a variety of large and modest bushes , box , arborvitae , Nipponese spirea , weigela bushes , ornamental grasses , branch of depart heaviness in diam , small and dense hedges , and theremoval of bushed branches .
While using each trimmer , we evaluated it base on its performance , safety feature , and mightiness . We also took into report the design and free weight of the creature , note how balanced it felt while exploit and how chop-chop we became fatigued .
The extended 22-inch blade length made it easy to use on tall, hard-to-reach shrubs.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
When it came to battery - operate models , we record how quickly batteries saddle and noted if a full assault and battery live long enough for a unmarried session of railway yard work .
eventually , we remark what we liked about the rubber features of the hedge trimmer as well as the randomness stratum while operating . After our initial round of golf of testing , we compose the result to name our top picks . We keep to use these hedging trimmers in our everyday landscaping tasks and will update this clause with our foresightful - terminus finding .
What to Know About Hedge Trimmers Before Shopping
Type
Dual - action at law
This type of pruner has two-fold - sided blades that provide for the power to promptly change direction of the trimming task . While the second blade will lend a moment of weight , it ’ll also help eat up the job faster , leave to less strain .
We like the way this hedgerow trimmer helps to make nimble piece of work with smooth and effective cuts . “ Dual blade can switch off plants in both directions from either side of the plant life , pass a clean and refined finish to the Book of Job ” Shaunfield explain . These manakin are the most popular choice you ’ll discover , and each of our top picks have dual - action blades .
Single - Sided
A single - sided hedge trimmer has teeth on just one side of the cut bar . Single - sided models can offer longer blades without lend too much weight to the motorcar , and they may be a square choice for bring down long , unbowed hedge .
Pole
A pole hedgerow trimmer provide an adjustable bar for prolonged reach to crop , prune , shape , and cut magniloquent George Bush , trees , and hedging . Pole trimmers incline to be the heaviest option due to their sizing .
Power
hedgerow trimmers can be powered by gasoline , galvanising , or cordless batteries . Generally , gas power pecker require more upkeep than their electric counterparts , including regular lubrication and purchasing the gasoline . They also tend to be sound with larger engine .
cord electric trimmers are typically lightweight , though you ’ll need to link up to an extension electric cord , which can keep mobility around your chiliad . barrage - operated trimmers provide the public convenience of electric with the cordless mobility of gas , though you ’ll likely need to purchase extra batteries if you design to landscape for more than an minute at a time .
Overall , “ electric trimmers are lighter and quieter than gasolene and are a great option for smaller yard , ” Shaunfield says .
Blade Size
The size and length of the blade size of a hedgerow trimmer depends on whether it is being used for trimming , defining , or cutting hedges , trees , and shrubs .
“ Blade size ( distance and max burn width ) will depart reckon on the type of hedge trimming capacitor you purchase , ” Shaunfield says . “ The blade size can be as small as 5 inches for an electrical pruner or up to 26 in for wakeless - obligation cutting . Most blades can cut arm up to [ ¾ inches ] . ”
According to Ng , the appropriate - sizing steel for the task is significant for a job well done for the bush , as well as for the prophylactic of the person engage the equipment . “ Blade size of it should not go beyond your ability to cultivate safely . If a hedging is unretentive , a smaller blade may be more appropriate than a longer blade . Longer blade may veer more at one time , but if they are too magnanimous for the job or the wheeler dealer , they may result in damage to the hedge or trauma to the soul . ”
Safety Features
hedgerow trimmers for residential use can boast guard features like blade protector , hand guards , front - hold - shields , and extendable piece of equipment . Consider the task requirements and the equipment you will be using for a trimming job .
“ A cock should feel balanced in your hand . A lighter piece of equipment will result in less line over time , ” Ng articulate . “ ensure to alternate script positions and tolerate positions to concentrate repetitive move nervous strain . For any slice of equipment , always show the instruction manual and follow the counsel provided by the manufacturer . ”
The weightiness of equipment is specially authoritative to reckon when working in elevated areas on hedges , shrubs , and tree .
“ Weight is an important cistron to look into when an mortal holds the political machine at bureau height or gamy , ” Shaunfield says . “ consumer should make certain they ’re comfortable holding the machine before it is turn on so they can have full control when operating . ”
Other Hedge Trimmers We Tested
Black+Decker 40V MAX Cordless Hedge Trimmer Kit
TheBlack + Decker 40V Max Cordless Hedge Trimmer Kitfeatures 22 - inch dual natural process blades for hassle - free work on hedge and bushes . It has an impressive battery life history , lasting over 2 hours in our testing . However , it was n’t as comfortable to utilize as other options we tested .
DeWalt 20V MAX 22-in. Cordless Battery Powered Hedge Trimmer
A white cut is an efficient one when it come to trimming branch , and theDeWalt 20 - Volt Max Hedge Trimmerhas a high - outturn motor that provides a smooth cut from the 22 - inch hardened steel blade . With a lightweight excogitation of 7.5 pounds , this battery - powered hedging trimmer equipment is easy to use around the yard and the hooked tooth blade design is made to make fleet piece of work of outgrowth measuring up to ¾ of an inch thick .
We wish that the compact and lightweight smell of the equipment that allows for maximum compass of motion when complete yard tasks with minimal focus on your coat of arms as you work . Just keep in nous that the battery and charger are sell separately , so if you do n’t already own a DeWalt battery , you ’ll be paying a lot more .
Your Questions, Answered
Can hedge trimmers cut branches?
“ Yes , hedge trimming capacitor can cut branches , ” Shaunfield tell . “ Most hedge trimmers will be able to cut branches up to ¾ column inch . ”
However , “ prominent branches should be clip using a more precise tool , " Ng says . “ This creates better pruning cut of meat , which in turn is better for the wellness of the plant . ” You ’ll likely need a magnetic pole see or a chainsaw to make larger cutting from tree diagram limb .
What maintenance is required for hedge trimmers?
upkeep is key for keeping garden equipment exercise at peak performance .
“ Hedge pruner should be kept clean and knifelike , " Ng says . “ deadening blade can rip works tissue paper , produce more Earth’s surface area for pathogen to infect . ” He recommend using a home disinfectant to strip trimmer joist blade between U.S. , as “ foul blades can introduce foreign stuff into open cold shoulder , which is detrimental to plant health . ”
After some use , you ’ll ask to oil and grease the geared wheel casing in power trimmer joist or lubricate the hinge in manual trimmers . “ No matter what , I advocate cleaning your hedge trimmer after habit and spray the vane with lubricating substance , ” Shaunfield enunciate . “ Then , cover the blades when they are in memory . For accelerator - power models , check the air filter and check that to use fresh fuel every sentence . ”
If your hedgerow pruner ’s blades become cracked or out to , they ’ll necessitate to be replaced .
How wide should a hedge trimmer’s blade gap be?
The distance between the blades determines the blade col and help estimate the size of a branch a creature is able-bodied to skip through safely and flawlessly . The spread sizing will variegate according to the model and make of the equipment . “ For residential use , the blade gap should n’t be larger than ¾ in , ” Shaunfield say .
Who We Are
This clause was write byAlice Knisley Matthias , aBetter Homes & Gardenswriter who publish about food , lifestyle , home , and garden topics . In add-on to utilizing the insights we gathered while testing hedging trimmers , she consultedBrian Shaunfield , a store manager at Lowe ’s , andMichael Ng , New York Botanical Gardens ’ director of arboretum and grounds for advice on what to appear for in a hedge trimmer .
What Is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the product on this list , you may have noticed ourBHG Recommends seal of approval . Products that make the seal of approval have been put through rigorous testing to make trusted they ’re worth a spot in your home . We buy most of the products we test ourselves , but from time to time we are furnish samples by companies if buying is n’t an option . In these pillowcase , we utilize the same examination criteria we use to test the buy product .
Credit: The Home Depot
The 22-inch blades can cut thick hedges and branches with a ¾-inch cut capacity.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Credit: Lowe’s
The trimmer easily cut through softer growth on shrubs, but struggled with tougher woody parts.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Credit: The Home Depot
The Ryobi 40V pole hedge trimmer extends up to 8 feet for hard-to-reach trimming.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
We tested seven hedge trimmers by cutting and trimming branches, and shaping shrubs and bushes.Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Blade size varies depending on the trimmer and if it’s meant for trimming, shaping, or cutting.Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
