How To Use Hedge Trimmers

Safety Gear

Safety Gear

Before attempting to use any powered equipment, it is important to first be dressed for it. When using hedge trimmers, heavy work gloves should be worn. This will not only protect the hands from bug bites, scrapes and scratches, it will also likely prevent blisters from forming on the hands. Other items that should be worn include safety goggles or glasses and steel-toed shoes. Wear long sleeves and long pants as well.

Purpose

Before using the hedge trimmers, the user should size up the bush and decide on a plan of action. Predetermine the amount of excess growth that should be taken off the top and sides of the plants. This will likely prevent over-pruning and limb damage.

Surroundings

Before getting started, be sure that the hedges in question are the property of the person doing the trimming. If not, permission should be given. As with a haircut, trimming bushes cannot be undone. The length can only grow back with time. If the hedge trimmer is an electric model, find a sturdy extension cord with no breaks or cracks in it. Use an electrical outlet compatible with the voltage required for the equipment. Canvas the area for puddles of water and do not attempt to use electrical components in the rain or snow.

Preparation

To start the project, put on all safety gear. Clear the area of any children and pets. Look over the bush and make sure there are no birds or wildlife in it. If there are, wait until they leave before proceeding with the project. If the bushes are extremely overgrown and contain multiple types of plants and vines, separate out and remove the vines before continuing. Watching out for thorns, untangle the vines and use hand pruners to cut the vines as close to their roots as possible. They can be pulled out in pieces when care is taken not to damage the bush. If possible, the bottom of the vines should be removed by their roots to avoid regrowth. Use heavy pruners to remove any young trees growing through the bushes. Survey the bush from all directions and create a plan. Plug in or fuel up the hedge trimmers before beginning the project.

Trimming

Start on one end of the hedges and, using a sweeping motion, begin trimming. Keep the strokes even in depth and length so that the bush will be uniform when it is finished. Do not go deeper than outskirts of the bushes allow, as the caliper of the branches and twigs get thicker the closer they are to the base.

Aftermath

Once the project is complete, clean up all debris and dispose of it properly. Recycle or compost any material, rather than putting it in the trash. Disconnect any electrical components. Wipe down the equipment and remove any twigs or pieces of debris from it. Do not leave the hedge trimmers outside in the weather.

by: Christine Harrell

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