Seen as one of the most important tools in your gardening toolkit, a good pair of secateurs can last a lifetime. They can be used on an array of tasks around the garden, such as removing thick branches, tidying long stems, harvesting fruit – everything except trimming and strimming – so choosing the right pair is an important task.
A search online will quickly reveal that not all secateurs are created equal. But what exactly should you look for when choosing a preen-worthy pruner?
- A sharp blade is essential. Look for high quality, high carbon steel (SK3 or SK5), zinc alloy or blades with a powder coating.
- An ergonomic design that combines function with comfort, such as shock absorbers and comfortable non-slip handle grips.
- A good cutting capacity, something that suits the thickness of branches you will regularly need to prune.
- A robust and easy to maintain design. A good manufacturer warranty (ideally 5 years or more) is a useful starting point, as well as the option to buy replacement parts.
Now you know what to look for when choosing your secateurs, here are some important secateur-related terms you should know and what they mean:
Anvil
Anvil pruners have a cutting blade and a flat edge that is like a knife on a chopping board. This action is perfect for cutting dead or dying stems of anything from 15mm to 25mm thick. It is designed to give you more power by creating a wider point for the cutting action, so you can effortlessly cut tough stems.
Bypass
Like a pair of scissors, Bypass secateurs produce a clean, sharp cut using two blades and are suitable for a range of uses in the garden. From cutting back young growth to garden topiary, these secateurs usually have a cutting diameter between 10mm to15mm and will ensure minimal stress on your thriving plants.
Ratchet
A ratchet cutting tool can have an anvil or bypass blade but with the added power of a ratchet spring action and mechanism to stagger the cut. The ratchet on a cutting tool gives you increased power without extra effort or strain.
Sap Groove
A sap groove is a channel on the side of your blade that funnels sap away. Usually found on Bypass secateurs, it ensures you get a sharp, smooth cut without sap residue sticking the blades together.
Caring for your secateurs FAQ
With a little care and attention your new secateurs will last a long time. Here are some of the questions we most frequently get asked:
How do I keep the blades in good condition?
Try to avoid using them to cut wire, metal or other hard materials. Always clean off the blades after use and occasionally apply a light oil to keep them running smoothly.
How do I sharpen the blades?
If the blades start to blunt, they can be sharpened using a whetstone. To use a whetstone, simply leave it in water for approximately 1 hour. Then once the whetstone is soaked through gently rub the blade across it, using an angled, circular motion. Aim for a 20–25-degree angle for larger blades and a 5-degree angle for smaller blades.
What do I do if the blades jam?
Rinse the blades off and remove any dirt and debris and dry them off with a cloth. Then wipe over the blades with an oily rag and add a little oil around the central bolt until it moves smoothly again.
