Choosing Tree Loppers

Tree Loppers are a type of pruning tool used to cut stems and branches of trees and shrubs. These are a popular garden tool for trimming overgrowth and maintaining the shape of trees, as well as for removing diseased or crossing branches or to address immediate safety concerns such as those that might threaten buildings or power lines. Some loppers are designed with a telescopic handle which allows you to adjust the length of the handles for greater leverage and extended reach. These are particularly helpful when working on larger trees or in difficult to reach spaces.

However, it is important to note that loppers should be used responsibly and not to simply cut overgrown branches to stubs, or remove leaves which help the plant to feed itself. In fact, indiscriminate ‘lopping’ can actually starve a tree by limiting access to much needed nutrients and can open the plant up to diseases and pests. While it may be tempting to choose a cheap tree lopper, if you’re serious about caring for your trees and their long-term health it is worth investing in a qualified arborist.

Approach and Expertise

Arborists are trained in arboriculture, typically hold qualifications and certifications in the field and have a deeper understanding of the biology, health and care of trees. They also have the knowledge and expertise to assess a tree, diagnose issues and recommend appropriate pruning techniques for each individual tree. Tree-loppers on the other hand, may specialise in tree removal or large scale pruning for clearance or aesthetic purposes without considering the long term impact of this work on the trees themselves.

When choosing a pair of loppers look closely at the maximum cutting capacity and examine the design and build quality. Avoid loppers that are overly noisy or which feel flimsy in the hand. If you need to tackle a lot of thick stemmed or hard mature wood, opt for a pair of anvil loppers which have a sharp blade that closes onto a cutting block and is ideally suited to heavier pruning work. These are a little noisier than bypass loppers but can be easier on the hands and will often come with a longer warranty to back up their performance. Our current Best Buy loppers are simple and unfussy, with Japanese SK5 carbon steel blades that make light work of even tough old wood and a cam assisted mechanism that makes them easy to use for people who lack strength. They are also incredibly competitively priced and come with a generous five year warranty. They have been awarded a BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Best Buy for ease of use. For more details please click here.

from Treby Tree Services https://trebytreeservices.wordpress.com/2025/02/24/choosing-tree-loppers/