Maintaining a well-kept garden is all about precision and the right tools. Whether you’re shaping ornamental hedges, tidying overgrown shrubs or pruning small branches, garden shears are the key to achieving clean, even cuts with minimal effort.
Understanding the different types of shears – and what each does best – can make trimming faster, safer and far more enjoyable.
Garden Shear Basics
Garden shears come in several forms, each designed for a specific purpose. The main types you’ll come across include:
- Hedge shears: Designed for trimming and shaping large, flat areas, such as hedges and bushes. They have long blades that cut multiple stems at once for a uniform finish.
- Pruning scissors: Also called garden scissors or pruning shears, these are small, handheld tools with short, sharp blades, best for cutting smaller branches, flowers or for precision work around delicate plants.
- Garden clippers: A general term for any small cutting tool with short blades, used to snip thinner stems or tidy edges.
When choosing the right pair, consider the type of plants you maintain and how often you trim them. If you have dense hedges or fast-growing shrubs, you’ll benefit from hedge shears that combine reach, control and sharpness.
Hedge Shears vs. Pruning Shears
While both tools cut plant material, their purposes differ significantly. Let’s explore the differences:
| Feature | Hedge Shears | Pruning Shears |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Shaping hedges, bushes and topiary | Cutting individual stems or branches |
| Blade Length | Long, often 20–30cm | Short compact blades |
| Cutting Motion | Scissor-like, cuts many stems at once | One precise snip per branch |
| Effort Required | Moderate to high | Low to moderate |
| Ideal For | Creating even shapes and edges | Removing deadwood or shaping smaller plants |
If you’ve ever found hedges looking a bit uneven after using pruning scissors, it’s simply because they’re designed for more detailed, single-stem work. Hedge shears, with their longer blades, make it easier to achieve smooth, symmetrical lines that suit structured garden shapes.
Fiskars’ Precision Cutting Approach
Fiskars is renowned for crafting tools that combine durability with ergonomic design. Our hedge shears balance lightweight materials with strong blades to reduce fatigue during long trimming sessions.
Two standout options available in South Africa include:
1. Fiskars SingleStep™ Hedge Shears Wavy Blade (HS22)
Ideal for shaping dense hedges and bushes, the SingleStep™ Wavy Blade Shears feature hardened steel blades with a nonstick coating that reduces friction and sap buildup. The wavy blade profile securely grips stems, preventing them from slipping during cutting. Durable glass-fibre reinforced polypropylene handles add strength without bulk, making the tool both sturdy and comfortable to use.
Designed for precision and ease of use, these shears offer the following features:
- Hedge- and bush-trimming capability: Ideal for shaping and maintaining dense growth.
- Wavy-profiled blades: Securely hold branches in place for a cleaner cut.
- Non-stick blade coating: Ensures smoother cutting and easy cleanup.
- Tool dimensions and weight: 13 × 58 × 19cm | Weight: 0.71kg.
- Product availability: These shears are available on the Fiskars Gardening Tools South Africa website and at select Builders Warehouse stores.
For those comparing options, garden shears prices vary by model, but each delivers exceptional value through Fiskars’ trusted quality and long-lasting design.
2. Fiskars Solid™ Hedge Shears (HS21)
For dependable performance across regular garden maintenance, the Solid™ HS21 Hedge Shears deliver a reliable, easy-to-use cutting experience. With hardened steel blades and Softouch™ grips, they provide control and comfort for extended trimming sessions. Their lightweight build of just 0.32kg makes them ideal for smaller hedges or regular shaping tasks.
- Hedge- and bush-trimming capability: Ideal for everyday maintenance and light shaping.
- Hardened steel blades: Deliver sharp, precise cuts and long-lasting durability.
- Softouch™ handle grip: Reduces strain and improves control.
- Tool dimensions and weight: 4.5 × 59 × 15cm | Weight: 0.32kg.
- Product availability: These shears are available on the Fiskars website and at select Builders Warehouse stores.
Both pairs exemplify Fiskars’ design ethos: tools that perform flawlessly and feel natural in your hands.
Key Features to Consider When Selecting Garden Shears
The right shears can transform your maintenance routine. Here’s what to consider before making your choice:
1. Blade Quality
High-carbon or hardened steel blades retain sharpness longer and resist rust. Nonstick coatings, such as those on Fiskars shears, reduce friction, ensuring smooth, clean cuts that protect plant health.
2. Ergonomic Design
Comfort matters just as much as cutting power. Look for shears with padded or contoured handles and shock-absorbing bumpers. Fiskars’ Softouch™ and glass-fibre-reinforced handles reduce hand strain, enabling better control and less fatigue.
3. Weight and Balance
If you’re working on tall hedges or long trimming sessions, opt for lightweight shears that balance near the handle. A well-balanced tool allows more precision with less effort.
4. Cutting Mechanism
Some models feature PowerGear™ technology, a patented mechanism that multiplies cutting force, making it well-suited for thicker branches. While not all Fiskars hedge shears include this feature, select models do, offering extra power when you need it.
5. Maintenance
Regular cleaning and sharpening preserve performance. Wipe blades after each use and store shears in a dry place. Lightly oiling the hinge mechanism periodically keeps it smooth.
Correct Trimming Techniques for Healthy Plants
Using the proper trimming technique protects both you and your plants.
- Start with clean, sharp blades: To prevent stems from being crushed and promote healthy regrowth.
- Stand comfortably with shears parallel to the hedge surface: Maintain a natural stance for better control and reduced fatigue.
- Trim in long, sweeping motions: To achieve smooth, even results rather than uneven short chops.
- Shape from bottom to top: Allow sunlight to reach all layers of foliage for balanced growth.
- Finish with vertical edges: Follow the hedge’s natural lines to achieve a neat, professional finish.
Mastering these steps will help you achieve cleaner cuts and more consistent shaping with far less effort.
Shape Every Season With the Right Garden Shears
Timing your trimming sessions with the plant’s growth cycle ensures healthier, more resilient results. Pruning at the right stage encourages new shoots, maintains structure and prevents unnecessary stress on the plant.
- Winter: Focus on major pruning of dormant deciduous trees and shrubs. Cut back overgrowth by half to shape the structure while plants are resting.
- Early spring: Remove winter-damaged branches and old foliage. Prune summer-blooming shrubs to encourage strong new growth.
- Spring to early summer: Trim hedges and spring-flowering shrubs after they bloom to promote next season’s buds.
- Summer: Lightly shape and deadhead plants to maintain appearance. Avoid heavy trimming during peak heat to prevent stress.
- Autumn: Do a final clean-up by removing dead or diseased branches and tidying hedges before winter dormancy.
Avoid trimming during extreme heat or drought, as plants are more susceptible to stress. Consistent maintenance with quality shears leads to fuller, healthier hedges year-round.
Shear Care for Long-Lasting Performance
Consistent maintenance ensures long-lasting performance and clean, precise cuts. Regular care protects your investment and guarantees smooth, efficient and healthy trimming.
- Wipe blades after each use: Remove sap and debris with a damp cloth to keep the edges clean and dry thoroughly.
- Store indoors or under cover: Protect shears from moisture to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Sharpen blades periodically: Use a fine file or Fiskars sharpening tool to maintain cutting precision.
- Tighten pivot bolts as needed: Ensure smooth operation and prevent blade misalignment.
With minimal upkeep, a good pair of garden shears can deliver flawless cuts season after season.
Experience Effortless Cutting With Fiskars Precision Garden Shears
Experience smoother cuts, lasting comfort and reliable performance with Fiskars’ expertly crafted garden shears, including hedge shears, pruning scissors and garden clippers. From precision trimming to shaping dense hedges, each tool is designed to make every gardening task easier, more efficient and far more enjoyable.
Explore the full Fiskars Garden Shears Range to find the perfect pair to transform your trimming routine with expert craftsmanship and dependable quality.
