To keep hedges neatly trimmed, you need an specialized garden tool. These are powered by battery or petrol and often feature an residual current device (RCD) for security.

With all the options and customization options available, picking the right one can be daunting. This article will help you with the basics so you can make an informed choice. Here’s another article on hedgetrimmer choices is another good resource.

Power

When you’re trimming hedges you want a tool that can complete the task at hand. There’s a model for every landscape, and for every budget.

Battery-powered trimmers don’t require fuel or power cord but their running duration and blade size could limit their utility for bigger jobs. If you want a more durable option consider a Dewalt trimmer that needs just two AA batteries and includes extra blade screws that can be replaced if worn-out after a few months of heavy use.

Some models feature Telescoping poles that let you cut leaves and branches at various heights without the need for a ladder. They can be extended, which reduces muscle fatigue by removing the need climb and stretch frequently. They also allow you to access the difficult-to-reach corners or edges of the yard. Other ergonomic designs feature padded front handles to improve comfort and assist you grip the trimmer with confidence.

Reach

There are several options to reach high hedges. A lot of trimmers have Telescoping poles that allow you to reach up high branches and avoid having to use ladders. This feature helps you save time and reduces strain on your arms and back.

A padded front handle helps with comfort and control while a safety switch prevents from accidentally turning the blade off. Extra blade screws are typically provided to replace worn screws after a prolonged period of use.

STIHL offers a variety of gas-powered models featuring long cutting bars that are suitable for large lawns and commercial uses. They’re fitted with efficient STIHL 2-MIX engines and ECOSPEED load control that lets you run them more economically by turning a dial. They’re also lightweight for comfortable handling. Homeowner models from Stihl are similar to commercial trimmers, but remain less heavy and more affordable than a professional model. They also have rotating handles to allow for greater maneuverability and anti-vibration features.

Blade Length

This tiny trimmer is ideal for topiary and smaller box hedges. It will struggle with yew and laurel. It’s corded. You might require an extension cable for larger gardens but it has a decent amount of power and range thanks to the 45cm dual-action blade.

This is a lightweight, easy-to-use model that has garnered lots of favorable reviews. It comes with a telescopic extension of 1.35 metres. Its battery can last for around 50 minutes and feels comfortable in the palms.

One of the main things to look out for is the width of the teeth gap. This determines the size of a tree it can cut. Double blades that rotate in opposite directions are also popular. They boost cutting efficiency, reduce the amount of noise and vibration. Certain models also have a rotating head to enable more efficient cutting vertically. These are great to make trimming more precise and ensuring that the full length of the hedge is well clipped.

Weight

A hedge trimmer that is too heavy could be difficult to use, especially by users who aren’t used to power tools. Certain manufacturers offer features such as telescoping poles and cushioned front handles to ease the strain on muscles and allow users to control their tool.

It is also important to know the difference between blade length and cutting capacity. In general, home gardeners won’t require a spruce-up trimmer that has blades longer than 24″. If you decide to go beyond that, you’re moving into the realms of professional-duty trimmers employed by arborists and landscapers to tackle serious overgrown shrubbery.

The EGO HC EB2025 is a robust and light hedge trimmer. It is powered by a lithium-ion 56-volt battery that is extremely efficient in comparison to its size and expense. It has a telescoping hand to allow you to reach places that are difficult to reach without having to stretch or climb. It also comes with a 4-year warranty to ensure you’re getting good value.