What tools do I need to get started with hand pruning shrubs?

You’ll need hand pruners (bypass pruners), loppers for thicker branches, a hand saw for larger cuts, gloves, and safety glasses. These basics will allow you to prune most shrubs safely and effectively.

How do I maintain my pruning tools?

Clean blades with dish soap and a scrubber to remove sap, sharpen regularly, and apply oil to prevent rust. Use rubbing alcohol to disinfect tools after pruning diseased plants to avoid spreading pathogens.

Why is tool maintenance important for pruning?

Well-maintained tools make cleaner cuts, which heal faster and reduce damage to the plant. Sharp, clean blades are also safer to use and more efficient, especially when working with dense or woody shrubs.

Checklist: Tools and Supplies for Hand Pruning Your Shrubs

Hand pruning is faster and easier when you have the right tools. It's also important to maintain them by cleaning, sharpening, and oiling them. Here's a short list of our favorite tools and supplies for hand pruning.

Hand pruners - also called bypass pruners
Loppers - long-handled pruners for larger branches and harder-to-reach spots
Hand saw - for branches that are too big for loppers
Gloves and safety glasses - for protection
Dish soap and a scrubber - to clean sap off of your blades
Sharpening tool - to ensure you have clean cuts
Oil - to help prevent rust and corrosion
Rubbing alcohol - to wipe down tools if pruning a diseased plant. This will help prevent the spread of disease.