Tree Loppers – What You Need to Know

Using a set of Tree Loppers regularly to prune wilting, dead or diseased branches and twigs helps keep trees healthy, and it prevents the spread of invasive insects and diseases. Tree pruning also lets in more sunlight to the lower canopy, allowing shrubs and smaller plants to thrive.

Unlike hand pruners and hedge shears, which are ideal for trimming small twigs and limbs, tree loppers have longer handles that allow them to cut larger branches and thicker stems with more power and precision than other types of manual pruning tools. They can also be used to trim large, mature trees with a more controlled cut than using a chainsaw. However, if a tree requires lopping, it is best to seek the services of an arborist as a qualified professional will be able to use specialist techniques that ensure the structure of the tree is maintained so that it’s not weakened or opened up to disease.

Loppers come in a range of handle lengths, from 15″ or 18″ loppers to 32″ or more, depending on how high you need to reach without a ladder. The length of the handle also affects how much leverage you have, with longer loppers offering more power but also potentially causing arm fatigue. Some loppers are also extendable, with telescopic handles that can be adjusted and extended to increase leverage when working at a greater height. Some of these models even have an additional cutting mechanism that can make slicing through tough wood a less strenuous task.

The blades of a pair of loppers work in the same way as scissors, with a single sharp edge passing over another to create clean cuts. This makes bypass loppers the best choice for pruning branches up to pencil sized in thickness, but they can be used to cut thicker twigs and limbs with the help of a pruning saw if needed. When cutting, try to avoid twisting the loppers as this can damage the blade and leave a rough, unattractive cut.

Stainless steel blades resist staining and rust more effectively than carbon-steel blades, but they aren’t as durable and may bend easily if the loppers are used for heavy-duty tasks or on hard, dense wood. The blades of carbon-steel loppers, on the other hand, are more durable but rust easier and may need to be periodically sharpened. They are also more expensive and can be difficult to resharpen once they become dull.

Look for a pair of loppers that can easily be wiped clean after each use, as they will likely get wet and covered in sticky sap, and you don’t want to transfer diseases from one plant to another. It’s also important to sterilize your loppers before using them again to ensure they are free of any bacteria or viruses. This is especially important if you’re using them to remove diseased branches or for cutting fruit trees. This can be done by rubbing the blades with isopropyl alcohol or a mixture of water and vinegar.

from Treby Tree Services https://trebytreeservices.wordpress.com/2024/04/21/tree-loppers-what-you-need-to-know/