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The Ultimate Hedge Trimmer Guide
A great hedge trimmer can work wonders in your garden. If you’re sick of looking out the window at an unruly hedge, it sounds like it’s time to take matters into your own hands!
In this hedge trimmer guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know for the ultimate hedge trimming experience. From choosing the right machine to how to use it in the safest way possible, we’ve got everything you need for the perfect result.
Plus, at GLC, we have a collection of hedge trimmers with different features and benefits. Whether you want a cordless, petrol, or long reach trimmer, we supply only the best in the business. Providing expert advice and top-rated products, we’re the go-to place if you want to transform the look of your garden.
Are you ready to dive into the world of hedge trimmers? Let’s go.
Choosing the Right Hedge Trimmer
First thing’s first; how do you choose the right hedge trimmer? There are plenty of options, but this can easily become overwhelming if you don’t know what you’re looking for.
There is a lot to think about, but we’re here to help with your decision.
The most common types of hedge trimmers are:
Let’s unpack them:
Cordless Hedge Trimmer
Cordless garden machinery is on the rise, as gardeners are realising how much easier it is. Cordless hedge trimmers with batteries and chargers are great for small to medium-sized gardens as you don’t need to worry about the cord not reaching or getting in your way.
The majority of the time, you can also manoeuvre them easily as they’re lightweight, which is great if your hedge is particularly unruly and you need to use the trimmer for longer.
Another benefit of cordless hedge trimmers is that they don’t release emissions and they’re often a quiet alternative if you’re using it in a noise-sensitive environment. For both homeowners and professionals, these kinds of trimmers are great.
The Stiga HT 500e Cordless Hedge Trimmer saves you from the hassle of cords and petrol fumes. With a 402W motor that delivers 21000 rpm to its 51cm blades, as well as a rotating handle that you can set to three positions depending on your cutting needs, it’s a great choice!
Check out the rest of our cordless hedge trimmers here.
Petrol Hedge Trimmer
If you’re tackling an overgrown hedge that’s large and in need of some serious trimming, a petrol hedge trimmer will serve you well. These kinds of heavy-duty hedge cutters are really powerful as they’re fueled by oil and petrol, making them great for bigger tasks and thicker branches.
These models are designed for tougher, more demanding jobs, and their strength and cutting ability helps you get the job done with ease.
For example, the Stihl HS 82 RC-E Petrol Hedge Trimmer is perfect for cutting those more challenging, overgrown hedges. It has a low speed/high torque gearbox that makes sure powerful cuts are delivered and achieved every time.
Explore some more of our petrol hedge trimmers here.
Long-Reach Hedge Trimmer
Long-reach trimmers are excellent for getting to the tall and hard-to-reach areas of a hedge. Generally, the blades on these tools work on an angle, helping you get to more challenging areas.
Whether they’re cordless or petrol-powered, long-reach trimmers are designed with comfort and ease in mind. They’re lightweight to hold and their long length makes them easy to use without stretching or stooping.
The Stihl HLA 56 Cordless Long Reach Hedge Trimmer is great for tackling larger hedges around the garden. It has an 18mm cutting capacity and a total length of 220cm, meaning it’s great for getting to those less accessible areas.
Take a look at some other excellent models here.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Hedge Trimmer
If you’re considering any of the options mentioned above, there will be key features you need to look out for.
Here are some examples:
Blade length: Longer blades are better for cutting large hedges, and smaller ones are good for precision.
Blade type: Different blades work best for specific tasks. Single-action blades have one blade that’s stationary and one that moves, making them more lightweight with bigger vibrations. Dual-action blades move in opposite directions, reduce vibration and help you get a cleaner cut.
Weight: Lightweight machines are better for smaller jobs and a more heavy-duty hedge cutter is great for larger, more demanding tasks.
Power source: Battery-powered hedge trimmers are more convenient, while petrol models deliver maximum power for more challenging jobs.
How to Use a Hedge Trimmer Safely and Effectively
Are you wondering how to use a hedge trimmer to get the best results? Hedge trimmers are dangerous machines and it’s important to handle them with care. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a complete beginner, taking steps to keep yourself as safe as possible will further streamline the process.
Keep hedge cutting season in mind, which is from September to February. This is enforced by the government in the UK with the primary aim of protecting the wildlife that use hedges as a safe space with their young.
As long as it’s within hedge cutting season, you can take steps to prepare accordingly.
Let’s take a look.
Preparation and Safety
Failing to prepare can sometimes result in dangerous and poor outcomes. From uneven cuts to safety issues, it’s in your best interest to take the correct precautions every time.
Inspect the Hedge Trimmer
Before you start using it, inspect your hedge trimmer to make sure there aren’t any issues with it that could cause harm.
Pay attention to:
- The blade’s condition: If the blade is dull with bent or nicked teeth, it won’t work properly. If the blade has any of these issues, it’ll stress the hedge and make the job even harder as resistance increases with the motor working harder. Using a flat file, a sharpening stone or a whetstone, you can sharpen the blade at home.
- The blade’s alignment: The blades of a trimmer need to be parallel with each other and should move smoothly during use. If they’re not aligned, you’ll notice the hedge trimmer vibrating more and inefficient cutting as a result.
- Blade tension: If the blades are loose or overly tight, they won’t work properly. To help with this, you can tighten or loosen the screws accordingly with a wrench.
- Bolts and fasteners: Make sure there aren’t any loose bolts, screws, or fasteners before you use your hedge trimmer. If any of these are loose, it’ll cause vibrations and increase the possibility of parts detaching during use.
- Power source: Check your hedge trimmer is plugged in safely, topped up with fuel, or equipped with a fully charged battery that’s ready to go. If you’re using a corded trimmer, make sure the wire isn’t frayed and that no wire is exposed.
If it uses fuel, inspect it for any leaks, and if it’s battery-powered, check it’s sealed inside.
Wear Proper Clothing and PPE
Hedge trimmers have sharp blades, and the right clothing and safety gear are essential. During use, there might also be debris flying about and you need to be prepared. Proper clothing and PPE are important as it’s designed to protect you from injuries that hedge trimming can cause.
Some examples of PPE are:
- Safety gloves: Wear thick gloves that are cut-resistant with padding. Some gloves come with the added benefit of velcro and elasticated cuffs for extra protection, and many also have safety strips for added security.
- Safety goggles or a face shield: To protect yourself from debris, like twigs and branches, keep your eyes and face covered with goggles and a shield.
- Ear protection: Petrol-powered, heavy-duty hedge trimmers are generally a lot louder than alternatives, and ear protection is necessary. Prolonged use can lead to hearing damage, so make sure you’re wearing high-quality ear protection or noise-reducing ear plugs for enhanced safety.
- Long-sleeved clothing: Debris and sharp blades pose a threat to skin, so wearing long sleeves and trousers will help avoid any accidents.
Prepare the Area
Making sure any obstacles are out of the way and that it’s safe to begin hedge trimming is vital. An uncluttered workspace will help you get the best results and there’ll be less risk of accidents.
To prepare the area:
- Check for obstacles: A hedge trimmer will damage obstacles, like fences or garden furniture, so make sure they’re all out of the way before you start. Furthermore, remove anything on the ground to avoid potential tripping hazards.
- Identify power cables: If you’re using a corded hedge trimmer, be aware of the cord and position it behind you to lessen the risk of tripping over it.
- Keep pets and children away: Hedge trimmers have sharp, fast-moving blades that often cause debris to fly. Keep children and pets away from the area whilst using the hedge trimmer to avoid any accidents.
- Plan Accordingly
The weather conditions are not always ideal for hedge trimming. Damp conditions increase the risk of an electric shock and can damage the tool itself.
Some other weather conditions to be aware of are:
- Morning dew and damp conditions: Using a corded hedge trimmer in wet or damp conditions can increase the risk of an electricity-based incident or cause damage to the tool. Battery-operated tools may also experience damage if any water gets in.
- Windy days: Wind and debris don’t go hand in hand. It’s best to avoid hedge trimming on windy days to prevent anything from flying towards you or anyone else.
A dry, calm day is your best bet! If the conditions aren’t right, hold off until another time or consult a professional for expert advice.
How to Trim a Hedge for the Best Results
Once you and the area are prepared, it’s time to start thinking about cutting. Unless you’re a professional, you might be wondering the best way to trim a hedge for the most precise result.
Cutting a hedge effectively is all about technique and having an understanding of plant growth. Once you know the right steps to take, you’ll be able to achieve the results you were hoping for.
Here are some top tips:
Start From the Bottom
One of the best ways to make sure you get the results you’re looking for is by starting at the bottom of the hedge and working your way up. By doing this, you can get a better view of the natural shape of the hedge and follow suit. It also helps you avoid patches where trimming isn’t necessary and get a more consistent look.
Hold the trimmer parallel to the ground and move up whilst moving from one side of the hedge to the other. Keep your movements smooth, and avoid hacking at the branches as this risks causing uneven patches.
Use Wide, Continuous Movements
Wide, sweeping motions are the best way to achieve a smooth finish. It might not seem important, but the way you move during the process will give your hedge a better finished look and keep its health intact. Aim for long, continuous sweeps and use both your hands for the best grip, as opposed to relying on your wrists for movement.
Another great tip is to keep the blade consistently moving, rather than pausing on different sections as this can create an uneven look. Using long, sweeping strokes will help to prevent overcutting as you’ll have more control.
Angle the Trimmer to Achieve a Good Shape
Aim to achieve the trapezoid shape, which is larger at the top and narrower at the bottom. This shape allows every part of the hedge to access sunlight, preventing sparsity at the bottom of the hedge. It also gives the hedge a stronger structure, which will help during snowy or rainy weather.
To achieve a tapered shape, hold the trimmer at a 5-10 degree angle inward while cutting and tilt it gradually as you move up the hedge. Avoid doing it too straight as a vertical shape can cause branches to become thin and weak over time.
A string line can help you keep the shape and make sure it looks as neat as possible.
Take Regular Breaks to Assess the Shape
Taking breaks and stepping backwards to assess the look of the hedge will keep you on the right lines with its shaping. Overcutting is a common mistake that can be avoided by having regular breaks to check the progress.
Using reference points, like a wall or house, can help to keep you on track and allow you to make any alterations if necessary.
If in doubt, we recommend undercutting as opposed to overcutting, as you can always go back if necessary. You can always trim a bit more but you can’t undo an overcut!
How to Sharpen Hedge Trimmers
Once you know how to sharpen hedge trimmers, you can keep them in top condition to avoid uneven cuts.
Some signs that your blades need sharpening are:
The blades tear branches as opposed to cutting. If the blades are blunt, you won’t get a smooth cut but frayed edges instead.
The motor overheats during or after use. Dull blades will mean the motor needs to work faster resulting in heat buildup, and this will lead to a shorter life for the motor.
More vibrations than usual. If the blades are dull there will be uneven cutting pressure, which will cause the hedge trimmer to vibrate too much.
When sharpening hedge trimmers, it’s important to follow a step-by-step guide for the best results.
Here’s how to do it:
Make Sure the Trimmer is Completely Off
- For electric or cordless models: Unplug it or remove the battery.
- For petrol models: Turn it off and disconnect the spark plug to be extra safe.
The last thing you want is the blades moving while you’re sharpening them!
Clean the Blades
- Before sharpening, wipe down the blades to remove dirt, sap, and debris. A damp cloth works well, but if there’s a lot of buildup, a little soapy water or a resin remover spray will help.
- Make sure the blades are completely dry before moving on.
Sharpen the Blades Using a Mill File or Sharpening Stone
- Use a flat mill file or diamond sharpening stone to go over the cutting edges of each tooth.
- Maintain the correct angle of around 30° to 45° as you file as this helps keep the blade’s sharpness consistent.
- Only file in one direction, not back and forth. Smooth, even strokes work best.
- Do about 5-10 strokes per tooth or until the edge feels sharp again.
Wipe Away Any Metal Shavings and Lubricate the Blades
- After sharpening, wipe off any small metal particles with a clean cloth.
- Apply a light coat of machine oil or blade lubricant to protect against rust and keep the trimmer running smoothly.
Essential Hedge Trimmer Maintenance Tips
For a hedge trimmer to work effectively, it needs to be looked after and kept in good condition. Regular upkeep of the trimmer can help with its condition and make sure it remains as sharp and efficient as possible.
Here are some hedge trimmer maintenance tips:
Clean After Every Use
After using a hedge trimmer, you might notice sap, dirt, and debris on the blades. This can prevent the trimmer from working properly next time and lessen its overall condition.
- Brush off any dirt with a brush or clippings that are caught between the blade’s teeth.
- Use a damp cloth to get rid of any sap or a mild solvent to remove it all. Avoid using too much water, especially for electric trimmers.
Rust is something you need to be aware of when looking after your hedge trimmer, but with regular maintenance, you can prevent it.
To help with rust:
- Wipe the blades with a damp cloth after every use, as plant residue and moisture can rust and lead to oxidation.
- For extra protection, use a thin coat of light machine oil or silicone spray to stop rust from forming.
The last thing to do after using a hedge trimmer is inspect it for damage and check for loose screws and parts. Due to the vibrations of the trimmer, this is a possibility and checking it will alert you to any issues. If you notice that any bolts have become loose, use a screwdriver to put them back into place.
Be aware that if your hedge trimmer vibrates excessively, it could be a worn-out gearbox or blade misalignment, in which case it will require professional servicing.
Routine Maintenance
Beyond post-use care, performing routine maintenance on your hedge trimmer will extend its lifespan and ensure smooth operation.
Lubricate the blades every few uses
- Apply a high-quality blade lubricant or light machine oil to reduce friction and prevent premature wear.
- For petrol hedge trimmers, lubrication is essential to protect moving metal parts from overheating and grinding.
- Avoid using WD-40 as a long-term lubricant, as it evaporates quickly and does not provide lasting protection.
Charge the battery fully before storing a cordless hedge trimmer
- Always fully charge the battery before long-term storage to prevent deep discharge, which can reduce its lifespan.
- Remove the battery from the trimmer when not in use for extended periods to avoid unnecessary drain.
- Store batteries in a cool, dry place and avoid extreme heat or freezing temperatures.
At GLC, we offer service and repairs for all your garden machinery. Whether you need blade sharpening or a full winter service, your garden machinery is in good hands thanks to our years of experience. Just fill out a form on our website and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
For petrol hedge trimmers, check and clean the air filter regularly
A clogged air filter reduces engine performance and increases fuel consumption.
Inspect the air filter every 5–10 hours of use and clean it with compressed air or wash it with warm, soapy water if reusable.
If the filter is heavily soiled or damaged, replace it according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Storage Tips
Proper storage of hedge trimmers is so important as it can help to prevent rust, damage, battery and cord issues.
Follow these best practices to keep your hedge trimmer in ideal shape during downtime:
Store the hedge trimmer in a dry place to avoid moisture damage
- Moisture exposure can cause rust on blades and corrosion in electrical components.
- Store in a shed, garage, or designated tool storage area away from the elements.
- For extra protection, consider placing a silica gel packet near the hedge trimmer to absorb excess moisture.
Keep it in its protective cover to prevent accidental blade dulling
- Most hedge trimmers come with a blade sheath or cover and use it to prevent the edges from becoming dull or damaged.
- You can also use a DIY wooden or plastic guard to keep the blades secure, it’ll work the same.
- Avoid placing other heavy tools on top of the hedge trimmer, as this can cause misalignment or blade warping.
The Ultimate Hedge Trimmer Guide
Hedge trimmers are useful tools for both homeowners and professionals, and they’re excellent for both big and smaller, more regular jobs. Whether you need a heavy-duty hedge trimmer, a cordless one, or a long-reach one, there are plenty of reasons why they’re a great addition to a garden tool kit.
With regular maintenance and proper care, you can keep your trimmer operating as it should.
At GLC, we offer service and repair that can help you keep on top of jobs and make sure your trimmer is working to the best of its ability. From sharpening hedge trimmers to genuine parts, you can trust your equipment at all times.
If you’re on the hunt for top-quality machinery and equipment you can rely on, check out our range of hedge trimmers or get in touch with us for more information.
