How to use a hedge trimmer
- Hedge design. Before you start trimming anything, have the overall design you desire in mind. You can decide whether...
- Start or connect the trimmer. If the hedge trimmer is an electric model, then the next step is to plug it into power.
- Work your way up. As you begin cutting start near the base of the hedge and cut your way upwards. As you...
What is the best hedge trimmer?
gas power
- Corded electric hedge trimmers. Corded electric hedge trimmers are extremely easy to use. ...
- Cordless electric hedge trimmers. Cordless electric hedge trimmers are just as easy to use as corded trimmers, but they typically weigh more (between 7 and 18 pounds) and exude more ...
- Gas-powered hedge trimmers. ...
What is the best battery powered hedge trimmer?
Troy-Bilt CORE TB4400 Cordless Hedge Trimmer Kit *Best Battery | Best Overall*
- Company: Troy-Bilt
- Rating: 4.8 / 5 stars
- Blade Length: 22″
- Battery: 40V
- Cutting Capacity: 3/4″
- Price: $$$$
How to start a Stihl gas powered hedge trimmer?
You will need the following tools and materials to correctly sharpen your electric hedge trimmer:
- Flat file
- Whetstone
- Soft cloth
- Water
- STIHL resin solvent
- Safety clothing
- Work gloves
- Safety glasses or face protection
How to unjam blades on an electric hedge trimmer?
- Place the Black & Decker hedge trimmer in a vise on a work surface with the blades facing up.
- Unplug the extension cord connecting the hedge trimmer's power cord to the AC outlet on an outside wall of your house.
- Shake a can of lubrication spray for five seconds.
How to trim a hedge with a hedge trimmer?
What to wear when trimming a hedge?
How often should I trim hedges?
What to wear when cutting twigs?
How to dispose of twigs and branches?
How to keep hedge lines straight?
Do hedges increase resale value?
See more
How do you cut a hedge with an electric hedge trimmer?
2:276:17How to Use an Electric Hedge Trimmer to Trim Bushes - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo that the sunlight can get to those leaves. And then gradually trim up the side where the bottomMoreSo that the sunlight can get to those leaves. And then gradually trim up the side where the bottom is a little bit further out than the top. In the perfect.
Can you use a hedge trimmer to cut branches?
Hedge trimmers, whether gas, electric or battery powered, are ideal for cutting hedges and thin branches up to about 3/4 inch. Anything bigger than this could snag on the teeth of the trimmer and cause it to seize up, so it's best to use a more powerful hedge cutter or chainsaw for larger branches.
How does a hedge trimmer blade work?
3:025:27How Does a Hedge Trimmer Work? — Lawn Equipment Repair TipsYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe action of the blades. Moving back and forth allows the trimmer to cut through small branches onMoreThe action of the blades. Moving back and forth allows the trimmer to cut through small branches on bushes and hedges.
Can you trim wet bushes with electric hedge trimmers?
It is safe to cut wet hedges and the branches may be softer and easier to cut. The majority of the time, a wet hedge will dry out within 24 hours. If there is significant rain or high humidity for longer than this period, it may be more difficult to cut them without risk of damage.
How do you properly trim a hedge?
Snip overgrown branches and limbs inside each bush. Clear enough space for sunlight and air to pass through and stimulate healthy growth. Make sure to prune the base near the roots as well. Position a taut rope or string across the top and bottom of your hedge to establish a guideline.
Why do I keep the blade cover on at all times when a hedge trimmer is not in use?
The hedge trimmer blades are covered by a removable protective cover to prevent accidental contact with sharp edges. Keep the protective cover on the blades until you are ready to install the blade stiffener, make blade adjustments, or operate the hedge trimmer.
Are hedge trimmers easy to use?
Not only do you need a long cable and often an extension cable to get power where you need to work, but you have to be aware of the cable at all times to avoid any risk of cutting through it; something that's easier with a hedge trimmer than with a grass strimmer or lawnmower.
Why does my hedge trimmer not cut?
Sharpening the blades may solve this issue without having to replace any parts. Another issue that you may encounter is bent teeth on your trimmer's blades. You can easily fix this issue by loosening the bolts on the blade guide and bending the teeth with pliers.
How do you turn on a hedge trimmer?
2:072:56How to Start a Gas Hedge Trimmer - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo again I want to start with the on/off switch put it to the run. Position. Place your unit firmlyMoreSo again I want to start with the on/off switch put it to the run. Position. Place your unit firmly back down on the ground left foot in the rear handle right hand on the front handle.
How do you trim overgrown bushes with hedge trimmers?
1:185:48How To Trim A Bush-Trimming Overgrown Shrubs-Tutorial - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd what you want to do is you want to sort of trim. Off. All of the excess. So start off in oneMoreAnd what you want to do is you want to sort of trim. Off. All of the excess. So start off in one area. Okay turn the hedge trimmer on and start trimming. So just watch what i'm gonna do right. Here.
Are electric hedge trimmers safe?
Keep the cord behind you and far out of the way during use. Always hold the hedge trimmer with both hands, well out in front of you. If you encounter a tough patch of growth, don't force the hedge trimmer over it as it could rebound and cause injury. Make sure you always maintain secure footing and avoid overreaching.
How do you cut tall hedges with an electric trimmer?
0:388:26Tips for Hedge Trimming Large Hedges - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd I go even with my shoulders whatever like that since the ground is level you'll basically justMoreAnd I go even with my shoulders whatever like that since the ground is level you'll basically just go a level across the whole way which is what we plan on doing this time.
Should I Use an Electric Hedge Trimmer?
Everybody considering clipping a hedge may have doubts about electric hedge trimmers. What are hedge trimmers for? The simple answer is that just like grass needs to be mowed, hedges need to be constantly trimmed and shaped. Hedge trimmers help a home gardener accomplish this.
Electric Hedge Trimmer Usage
Before you start using an electric hedge trimmer, be sure to take a few safety precautions. Make sure there is not a lot of activity in the area, especially kids playing nearby. Then take a look at the weather. Electric hedge trimmer usage when the hedge is wet can be dangerous.
How to Use Hedge Trimmers
The best way to learn how to use hedge trimmers is to read the user’s manual, and then have an experienced gardener walk you through the process. You will need to figure out the best time of year to prune (for evergreen hedges, it’s late summer), and also determine the shape your hedge or shrubs should take.
How to trim a hedge with a hedge trimmer?
For trimming the top of the hedge, you need to maintain a sturdy posture – preferably leaning back while bracing your elbow against your side to accommodate the weight of the hedge trimmer. Hold the trimmer horizontally at a slight angle (10 degrees) and use a wide sweeping motion.
What to wear when trimming a hedge?
To avoid skin irritation and small cuts by branches, it’s advisable to wear pants and long-sleeved shirts. Accessories such as scarfs are liable to snag on twigs and branches. Inspect and clear the area: inspection includes the surrounding environment as well as the hedge itself.
How often should I trim hedges?
For example, formal hedges are often trimmed every four months or less, while informal hedges may be trimmed semi-annually to allow a more natural shape. Below are the steps to trim your hedge:
What to wear when cutting twigs?
Ensure you have appropriate footwear and clothing: Do you have safety goggles? What about gloves and non-slip shoes? It is also important to choose clothing that is tight-fitting, sturdy, and that allows you to move freely. To avoid skin irritation and small cuts by branches, it’s advisable to wear pants and long-sleeved shirts. Accessories such as scarfs are liable to snag on twigs and branches.
How to dispose of twigs and branches?
Clean up after yourself! Gather all the trimmed twigs and branches with a rake and find a safe and eco-friendly way to dispose of them. For example, you can drag them to your compost heap. After raking, you can use a broom to sweep the finer leaves and twigs for optimal aesthetic value.
How to keep hedge lines straight?
What about keeping the hedge line straight and neat? For small and medium length hedges, you can simply use your intuition and trim freehand. But if the hedgerows are long (e.g. hedge fences), you can tie a string on either side of the hedge and use it for accurate measurement.
Do hedges increase resale value?
Most types of hedges are evergreen meaning that they maintain their aesthetic vibrancy all year round. And did you know that hedges, bushes, and shrubs can even increase the resale value of your house, especially if they are neatly trimmed and well maintained? While the value of a hedge is obvious by now, how do you go about maintaining your hedge? Two words: hedge trimmer.
What is the difference between a gas and electric hedge trimmer?
The motor of the hedge trimmer comes as either gas-powered or electric-powered. The gasoline option uses fuel and oil to power the hedge trimmer. On the other hand, the electric motor uses an electrical current to power the trimmer.
What is the motor on a hedge trimmer?
Motor. This is a part that is found on all hedge trimmers regardless of the model. The motor of the hedge trimmer comes as either gas-powered or electric-powered. The gasoline option uses fuel and oil to power the hedge trimmer.
What bushes can you trim with a hedge trimmer?
Portuguese Laurel. These are just some of the types of bushes that you can use the hedge trimmer with. One tip that many experts have provided with regards to trimming your yard is to trim outside the dormant period. For most plants, this falls in the winter or fall months.
How does a gas trimmer work?
Whether you use a gas-powered or electric option, you will find that the trimmer is comprised of blades extending from the body of the tool. These blades are connected to the motor, which when switched on will move one or all the blades to move in a forward and backward motion.
Why cut hedges at an angle?
Apart from improving the appearance of the hedge, the angle is vital to the height of the hedge. It will allow sunlight to pass into the hedge and make it healthier.
What to do before trimming a hedge?
Before you start trimming anything, have the overall design you desire in mind. You can decide whether your hedges would serve as a fence, add personality to your garden, or just be a privacy screen.
Can hedge trimmers be dangerous?
While hedge trimmers are excellent tools to use, they come with safety requirements. When used wrongly, you can end up with serious injuries . That is why this section is very important. Here are some of the best tips on using hedge trimmers safely.
What kind of hedge trimmer should I use for tall shrubs?
For hedges and shrubs that are tall and not so easy to gain access to, I recommend using a hedge trimmer that has extended – reach capabilities. Not only is this convenient, it’s also the safest way to trim tall hedges. What exactly is an extended-reach trimmer?
How to trim hedges flat?
Here’s another tip many professionals suggest doing if you want your hedges looking just right: when cutting the top of a hedge flat, hold the trimmer level and slowly guide it back and forth to the left and to the right. Again, concentrate on what you’re doing, and cut only a few inches at a time.
Why trim hedges at an angle?
Because hedges are wider at the bottom narrower on the top, it’s wise to trim the sides at an angle. By doing this, you’re allowing sunlight to reach the root system of the shrub or hedge.
What is the disadvantage of battery operated hedge trimmers?
Battery – operated hedge trimmers also allow free movement but have a distinct disadvantage in terms of the user having to frequently change and charge batteries.
Do hedges grow quickly?
It may seem painfully obvious, but you should do regular maintenance of your shrubs and hedges. They do grow quickly and – if not trimmed regularly – will look unkempt and ugly. Finely manicured hedges can enhance the value of a home if you’re trying to sell yours.
Do you need to sharpen hedge trimmers?
Moreover, you need to keep your trimmer blades sharp. If you cut hedges with a dull blade, they can easily snag on the hedge, which will only serve to cause you more aggravation. Either sharpen your blades in your garage, shop, or take them to an approved dealer.
Can you use an electric hedge trimmer with a cord?
There are many advantages to using an electric hedge trimmer. Because the trimmer is plugged in, you don’t need to worry about battery power fading. But the cord can also be this type of trimmer’s Achilles Heel.
What Are Electric Hedge Trimmers?
Electric hedge trimmers are a gardening tool that runs on a battery or electrical cord. These devices have a blade that cuts through the sturdy branches of shrubs and small bushes. If you’re new to hedge trimming, check out this excellent instructional video.
How big is a hedge trimmer?
You can find hedge trimmers from a smaller hand-held version with a 4″ to 6″ blade up to a full-size trimmer with a single blade between 16 inches and 26 inches.
How to get rust off a trimmer blade?
Place the trimmer in the sun to dry. Then apply lubrication before putting the trimmer away. If your blade shows signs of rust or seizing, you can coat your blade with WD-40 or kroil oil. These products break down any rust build-up and provide lubrication to ease movement.
How to prevent rust on hedge trimmer blades?
If you want to prevent rust on your blade, it’s crucial to wipe off any remaining water and apply rust preventative —metal oxidizes when it gets wet, which eventually results in rust. After you’ve trimmed your wet hedges, use a dry cloth to wipe down the entire blade. Place the trimmer in the sun to dry.
How many sharpened sides does a hedge trimmer have?
A single action or single-sided trimmer only has one sharpened side, so you’re limited in how you can make cuts. You’ll also want to consider the spacing between the blade’s teeth, as this controls how thick of a branch the trimmer will cut. You can find electric hedge trimmers that can cut up to a ¾” diameter.
Why does my hedge trimmer rust?
One of the problems that can occur from trimming hedges after the rain is that water can cause the blade to rust. The water can also get into the sensitive inner workings of the trimmer, damaging the gears.
Why do hedge trimmers need to be cleaned?
This happens because the water makes debris easier to stick to the surface of the blade. It’s essential to clean your hedge trimmers after each use, making sure to remove any water or material on the sides and between the teeth. Cleaning your electric hedge trimmers is pretty simple.
What is a Hedge Trimmer?
A hedge trimmer is a machine that cuts and prunes hedges and shrubs. The blade ranges from five to 26 inches long, ideal for cutting through branches up to 1/2- to 3/4-in. thick. Anything thicker requires a different pruning tool, says Vince Christofora, owner of Woodstock Hardware in Woodstock, New York.
How much does an electric hedge trimmer cost?
If your hedges are about 100 to 200 feet from your home and you’ll only use it a few times a year, Christofora says an electric hedge trimmer can be the most inexpensive choice; average cost is $30 to $200.
What is a single action hedge trimmer?
Single- or double-action blades: Hedge trimmers blades are single-action (one moving blade and one static blade) or double-action (two blades moving in opposite directions). Christofora says double-action hedge trimmers are helpful if you’re shaping your hedges, or if you’ll be using your hedge trimmer for extended periods because they vibrate less than single-action hedge trimmers.
How loud is a hedge trimmer?
Note: A hedge trimmer can be as loud as 103 decibels (dB); anything louder than 80 dB can cause hearing damage or loss.
What are the different types of hedge trimmers?
Hedge trimmers are grouped by their power source into three main categories: battery-, electric- and gas-powered.
How far apart should blade teeth be on hedge trimmer?
Blade teeth: The teeth can be spaced 1/2- to 1-1/2-inches apart. If the blade teeth are close together, they might not be able to handle more unruly hedges. So don’t buy a hedge trimmer with narrower teeth if you’re cutting through 1/2- to 3/4- inch hedge growth.
How to trim a hedge with a hedge trimmer?
For trimming the top of the hedge, you need to maintain a sturdy posture – preferably leaning back while bracing your elbow against your side to accommodate the weight of the hedge trimmer. Hold the trimmer horizontally at a slight angle (10 degrees) and use a wide sweeping motion.
What to wear when trimming a hedge?
To avoid skin irritation and small cuts by branches, it’s advisable to wear pants and long-sleeved shirts. Accessories such as scarfs are liable to snag on twigs and branches. Inspect and clear the area: inspection includes the surrounding environment as well as the hedge itself.
How often should I trim hedges?
For example, formal hedges are often trimmed every four months or less, while informal hedges may be trimmed semi-annually to allow a more natural shape. Below are the steps to trim your hedge:
What to wear when cutting twigs?
Ensure you have appropriate footwear and clothing: Do you have safety goggles? What about gloves and non-slip shoes? It is also important to choose clothing that is tight-fitting, sturdy, and that allows you to move freely. To avoid skin irritation and small cuts by branches, it’s advisable to wear pants and long-sleeved shirts. Accessories such as scarfs are liable to snag on twigs and branches.
How to dispose of twigs and branches?
Clean up after yourself! Gather all the trimmed twigs and branches with a rake and find a safe and eco-friendly way to dispose of them. For example, you can drag them to your compost heap. After raking, you can use a broom to sweep the finer leaves and twigs for optimal aesthetic value.
How to keep hedge lines straight?
What about keeping the hedge line straight and neat? For small and medium length hedges, you can simply use your intuition and trim freehand. But if the hedgerows are long (e.g. hedge fences), you can tie a string on either side of the hedge and use it for accurate measurement.
Do hedges increase resale value?
Most types of hedges are evergreen meaning that they maintain their aesthetic vibrancy all year round. And did you know that hedges, bushes, and shrubs can even increase the resale value of your house, especially if they are neatly trimmed and well maintained? While the value of a hedge is obvious by now, how do you go about maintaining your hedge? Two words: hedge trimmer.
