LandscapExperts Tip of the Week, December 10

Executing a Landscape Renovation

Pruning Tools Needed

Bypass Hand Pruners – fine pruning, removal of crossing branches, maintains graceful shape of the plant

Ratchet Lopping Shears – 2-handed pruners for thicker stems and branches, ratchet provides extra power to get through 2-inch branches

Pruning Saw – cutting through small limbs

Pole Pruner – reaching branches high up in shrub or tree

Hedge Trimmer – create smooth topiary surface in small-leaved evergreen shrubs

Traditional Butterfly Bonsai Shear – fine cuts that redirect branching in herbaceous perennials, small shrubs

Bonsai Convex Cutter – remove branch at base, leaving smooth cut that readily heals over without stubs or scarring

Sharpening File – essential to have sharp pruning tools

Alcohol or 10% Bleach Solution – sanitation between cuts to prevent spread of disease