Garden shears, also known as pruning shears or secateurs, are an essential tool for any gardener. They are designed specifically for gardening tasks, with sharp blades that can make precise, clean cuts on a variety of plant materials. But can garden shears cut branches? The answer is a resounding yes!
Types of Garden Shears and Their Functionality
Garden shears come in a variety of styles, each with its own unique features and functionality. Two of the most common types of garden shears are bypass shears and anvil shears.
Bypass shears have a sharp upper blade and a lower blade that works much like a hook, holding the branch in place to prevent it from sliding. This design allows for a clean, precise cut that minimizes damage to the plant. Bypass shears are ideal for pruning delicate plants, such as flowers and shrubs, as well as for making cuts on smaller branches.
Anvil shears, on the other hand, have a sharp upper blade and a flat lower blade. They cut branches much like using a knife on a cutting board, with the flat lower blade providing a stable surface for the cut. Anvil shears are great for cutting thicker branches and can handle more heavy-duty pruning tasks.
Using Garden Shears to Cut Branches
Regardless of the type of garden shears you have, they can be used to cut branches. When using garden shears, it's important to follow a few best practices to ensure that you make clean, precise cuts and minimize damage to the plant.
First, make sure that your garden shears are sharp. Dull blades can cause tearing and damage to the plant, as well as make the cutting process more difficult. Regularly sharpening your garden shears will ensure that they are in good working condition and ready to tackle any pruning task.
Next, hold the branch firmly with one hand while you make the cut with the other. Use the lower blade of bypass shears to hold the branch in place, or the flat lower blade of anvil shears as a stable surface for the cut. Make sure to cut just above a bud or node, as this will encourage the plant to grow new branches and leaves.
Finally, avoid cutting too close to the trunk of the plant. Leaving a small stub can help protect the plant from disease and pests.
