In this step-by-step guide, I’ll take you through a simple, plant-positive approach to pruning that should leave your trees in great shape.
- PPE. Pruning often demands the use of personal protective equipment such as DeWalt safety goggles and a hard hat.
- Lopper. A two-handled cutting tool, designed especially for pruning small-to-medium branches. For this guide, I used a Felco 211-60. This superb lopper is shown in the photos.
- Pruner. The most convenient type of tool for pruning easy-to-reach branches under about 1″ thick. One very good pruner designed for pruning wood is the Wolf-Garten RSEN Anvil Pruner.
- Pole lopper. These long-reach tools are great for cutting high-up branches. I use a trigger-activated Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless Pole Lopper.
- Pruning saw or mini chainsaw. To prune the thickest branches, you may require a pruning saw such as the Felco F 621, or a mini chainsaw like the highly-rated Greenworks 24V 6" Brushless Pruning Saw.
