A hedge is a small wall made of plant material to enclose one’s area/territory, e.g., front lawn. Hedges are the cherry on top of lavish houses. However, lawns constantly need maintenance and trimming, and this is where hedge trimmers come in.
What are hedge trimmers?
Hedge trimmers are gardening tools used when pruning or trimming. They can be used on either hedges or bushes. Hedge trimmers can either be manual or automatic/powered. Manual hedge trimmers are often cumbersome as compared to powered ones.
Types of hedge trimmers
Hedge trimmers exist in 3 major types. The types are double-sided, single-sided, and pole hedge trimmers.
One must consider several factors before and when buying a trimmer. The factors may include:
· Height/length of the lawn
Choose a trimmer depending on the height of your lawn. Small-handled shears may be used for smaller lawns, but long-handled ones are most effective for taller lawns. An automatic trimmer with a long handle would be most efficient for very tall lawns. It’s worth noting that a good ladder is also an important tool when trimming very tall hedges.
· Whether for plain or decorative trimming
When buying a hedge trimmer, you must consider whether or not you are plainly or decoratively trimming your hedge. A double-sided trimmer is best suited when one is doing decorative trimming. They are best suited for trimming medium-height hedges (chest height). On the contrary, single-sided trimmers work exponentially when working straight/plain edges.
It is also essential to ensure that powered trimmers have an efficient vibration-dampening system. This ensures better and very comfortable use.
· User functionality
When buying a hedge trimmer, whether manual or automatic, ensure you are well informed on its use. Consider buying easy-to-use non-sophisticated powered trimmers.
Hazards of using the hedge trimmer
There are various hazards one might encounter when using the hedge trimmer. So as to take the necessary precautions, one has to be familiar with the hazards, which include:
· Entanglement
Moving parts can be entangled with hair, rags or other fiber materials
· Risk of cuts
Cuts may result from contact with the blade during operations. Wearing safety gloves reduces the risk of cuts
· Flying objects
Powered hedge trimmers may propel small objects, e.g., stones, during use. When handling hedge trimmers, one should wear safety glasses.
· Noise from equipment
Some models, significantly earlier builds of powered hedge trimmers, would emit much noise. Newer models, however, have been manufactured with low noise production. Noise-dampening plugs may be used in cases of earlier models.
Use of hedge trimmers
When using hedge trimmer machine, one has to work in a particular manner to avoid ergonomics. Using hedge trimmers correctly also ensures the hedge stays healthy. Their various steps to this are as follows;
· Inspect the area thoroughly.
· Know the safety practices
· Start trimming from the base slowly and gradually.
· Service and clean the trimmer after use.
Conclusion
This article contains the basics to purchase and effectively use a hedge trimmer.