Hedges are great alternatives for walls and fences and can be found almost everywhere in the world. In order to keep hedges looking tidy and for the purpose of maintaining a beautiful lawn area and surroundings, there is one tool that is an absolute must-have: an electric hedge trimmer.
In this article we will be looking at electric hedge trimmers and why they are the best choice, along with some expert tips on how to make your edges look stunning. Let’s begin!
What are Electric Hedge Trimmers?
The first thing we will be discussing is what exactly is an electric hedge trimmer is. Well, an electric hedge trimmer is much like a regular hedge trimmer, whose main function is to trim, cut, prune and shape hedges.
The main difference is that this type of hedge trimmer is powered by electricity and not petrol or gas, and you won’t have to manually trim your hedges using shears.
These hedge trimmers are usually powered by durable lithium-ion batteries which last around 20 minutes.
Who Uses Electric Hedge Trimmers?
Electric hedge trimmers can be used by pretty much any able-bodied adult. From gardeners to the handy husband or independent lady, electric hedge trimmers are safe and easy to use once the proper precautions are taken.
Types of Electric Hedge Trimmers: Corded Vs Cordless
The two main types of electric hedge trimmers are the corded and cordless versions.
Corded electric hedge trimmers, as the name suggests, have a cord. This type of trimmer has to plug in directly to the socket via an extension cord.
The downside of this is that you will have many cords to deal with, especially if the area you are covering is extensive or has a lot of curves and corners. However, you will never have to worry about your trimmer running out of fuel or battery as the power source is constant.
They’re also usually more powerful than their cordless counterparts.
Cordless electric hedge trimmers, on the other hand, do not have a cord and have to be charged in order to work. The disadvantage is that you may have to charge it every time you wish to use it, but you will never have to worry about tripping over a cord.
Choosing the Right Electric Hedge Trimmer
There are many different corded and cordless electric hedge trimmers on the market today. In order to choose the best one for your hedges, consider:
- The thickness of your branches
- The feel of the trimmer in your hand (comfort)
- Size and weight
- Blades (blade gap, length, single sided or double sided)
- Power source
How do Electric Hedge Trimmers Work?
Electric hedge trimmers, as mentioned before, are pretty much the same as regular hedge trimmers, except they use electricity as a power source instead of fuel.
In order to trim hedges, the blades of the electric hedge trimmer move back and forth at high speeds in order to generate enough force to produce clean cuts to branches.
If you have already purchased your electric hedge trimmer, or are about to for maintaining a beautiful garden, here is a run-down of how it works:
Prepping Your Electric Hedge Trimmer
Before you even begin to trim those hedges, you must do a bit of prep work for your own safety and to ensure the job will go smoothly and quickly.
- Make sure you are properly dressed for the job, remember: Safety first! Gloves, boots, eye protection, ear protection, and heavy-duty gardening attire are a must for trimming hedges. This will ensure that you are safe while doing the job and will prevent unnecessary and avoidable injury
- Lubricate the blades of the hedge trimmer
- Check your hedges for stones, pieces of debris, or anything that might get stuck between the blades
- If your electric hedge primmer is corded, ensure it is securely plugged in and all cords and extensions are out of your way
Now you are ready to begin trimming!
While Trimming
While trimming, there are a few things you must bear in mind:
- Before you begin trimming, ensure you have a proper grip on the trimmer whilst maintaining a proper stance
- Stretch a string from one end to another and trim above it to ensure your hedges are level when you are finished trimming
- Always trim from top to bottom
- Because electric hedge trimmers are not usually heavy duty, avoid trimming branches that are over a ¾ inch thick
- Do not force the trimmer to cut a branch it is resisting. This can cause damage to the blades and even injury to you
- For older growths, use a sawing motion. For new growth, use a sweeping motion
- When the blade has finished cutting, release the trigger. This will prevent unnecessary wear and tear of the blades
- Never run with your trimmer
- Never use your trimmer while on a ladder or chair
- Never trim above shoulder height as this makes controlling the trimmer and keeping proper balance or footing harder
- Never adjust the trimmer while it is plugged in
- Do not move to the next hedge until the blades have stop moving completely
After Trimming
After trimming, plug out or turn off your electric hedge trimmer. Ensure that there are no pieces of sticks or stones lodged within the machine. Clean and lubricate as directed by its manufacturer.
Advantages of Using an Electric Hedge Trimmer
When compared to hand-held shearers and gas hedge trimmers, there are plenty of advantages to an electric hedge trimmer, including:
- Easier and safer to use, especially for beginners
- Most are lightweight
- They are more affordable
- They’re much quieter, easier to start and maintain
Maintaining a beautiful lawn and stunning hedges is not difficult once you have the perfect tools in hand. Follow this guide on electric hedge trimmers and watch your hedges flourish.
And make sure to check out other reviews of essential gardening items such as an electric lawn mower, and how to choose the right (petrol) mower for you.