Pruning is a necessary gardening practice that includes removing deadwood, roots, branches, or buds. It is vital for perseverance and enhancement of the plants' overall health and the prevention of falling branches.
Now, you may be wondering:
How to successfully prune the plants?
Besides gaining some general knowledge about what particular parts of the plants should be removed and how the crucial segment in pruning is to acquire proper secateurs.
A piece of cake, right?
More...
As simple as this sounds, it is by no means an easy job. There is a wide variety of secateurs and pruners on the market, and choosing the best one can be frustrating, especially when you're on a budget.
Luckily, I enjoy scrutinizing the market and finding the best it has to offer, so I have already done it, selecting the 9 best garden secateurs for anyone's wallet.
Keep reading, and enjoy!
Top 3 Selections of the Best Garden Secateurs
Skim through our concise table of 3 finest selections to find out their current price and how the customers rated them before you read our detailed reviews.
Best Garden Secateurs on the Market: My Top 9 Choices
Now, in the following text, you can read our thorough reviews of the 9 best secateurs on the current market with their advantages and disadvantages listed. Enjoy!
What we have here are one of the best garden secateurs with a bypass blade, perfect for green wood and thinner branches. They are among the mid-range products when it comes to the price, but as they encompass a premium design, they will last long.
So, the first thing I like about this tool is sharp, high-quality blades. The blades are made of premium carbon alloy steel and furthermore subjected to anti-rust processing, which is essential as you will be able to preserve the same quality over the years.
Next off, these pruning shears are designed to effectively cut stems and light branches up to 3/4″ in diameter. Moreover, they have a safety lock that enables easy opening and closing in hand, and the hard plastic handles allow a comfortable grip.
Customers mostly claimed that these secateurs are honestly lightweight and easy to use, yet sharp enough to cut through smaller branches.
What they don't like is the slippery surface of the handles that may cause the secateurs to fall and injure you as they are very sharp.
But I am sure you can prevent this from happening if you carefully use them and perhaps wear gardening gloves.
All in all, the product offers fantastic quality and proves efficient. If you consider a spare spring you get for free, it is one more than a decent offer.
- Lightweight
- Sharp
- Easy to use
- Comfortable
- High-grade blades
- Free spring
- Slippery
The next product on our list is these genuinely heavy-duty secateurs from Gardena, proven to effectively cut through woody twigs and branches with quite an ambitious diameter.
They rely on the anvil design, being thus able to handle more demanding tasks than our previous model.
What makes these secateurs super powerful is the robust anvil design that provides optimal power transmission. It allows the secateurs to cut through not just green wood, but even older twigs and branches up to 23 mm in diameter.
Another fantastic feature is the reinforced ergonomic design that makes this tool comfortable to use.
Namely, the handles include soft plastic components and reinforced fiberglass shaped in a joint-friendly form, so your hands won't hurt after use.
As for the use, these secateurs are more than convenient and even have a single-hand safety lock that enables you to quickly lock the tool and store it away. Also, the spring is integrated into the body, so it provides an easy grip.
This model is available in different sizes, cutting various diameters so you can customize the offer to fit your needs. Plus, they come with a considerable 25-year warranty from Gardena, so you are backed up.
- Heavy-duty
- Excellent performance
- Cut through branches
- Comfortable
- Ergonomic
- Warranty
- Not for delicate cuts
Here we have one cost-efficient offer for all the budget-conscious gardeners or newbies not willing to spend too much money on the tool.
They feature the design of the scissors, so basically, they are intended for flower cutting and soft greens. Yet, you would probably like to know that this is the best-rated offer on Amazon, thus worthy of attention.
What I can with certainty say is that these secateurs are all about the convenience of use. They have ergonomically shaped handles, covered in soft-touch plastic, highly comfortable and gentle.
Furthermore, the surface is non-slip, so you can safely grip the handle without worrying about possible injuries.
When it comes to the blades, these flower scissors have stainless steel blades that are incredibly sharp, yet durable and rust-resistant.
Its sharp, scissors design enables cutting of flowers and green branches up to 7mm in diameter, so these secateurs are intended for lighter gardening tasks.
Finally, the tool is honestly lightweight. It weighs only 172g, therefore effortless to use, and its stable suspension, together with the safety closure designed for one-hand use, makes it super-convenient for everyone.
As for the price, this is one of the cheapest models on the market, almost half the price of the average garden secateurs.
On the other hand, they have a decent, reliable design, so it is definitely the best quality you can get for the price.
- Affordable
- Stainless steel blades
- Lightweight
- Soft-touch plastic
- Easy to use
- Not intended for demanding tasks
Next off, we have another professional bypass secateurs from GRÜNTEK, heavy-duty and durable, exhibiting premium quality, reliable design, and professional performance. Find out what happens when German design meets Japanese materials.
These secateurs are designed for challenging pruning tasks and can cut through stems and branches between 5-20mm in diameter. Their advanced, high-quality design offers the comfort of use and untamed strength.
The bottom blade is made of carbon steel and chrome-plated for reinforced quality, while the main blade, 48mm long, features Japanese SK5 Steel, Teflon-coated. The coating improves the blades' resistance and durability, while their sharpness enables precise and useful cuts.
Furthermore, the secateurs include heavy-duty aluminum handles, coated in soft plastic and ergonomically shaped to enable a comfortable grip during continuous, challenging use. Plus, the surface is non-stick, so that you won't need the gloves.
Now, the secateurs weigh 256g, and they also include the metal lock for safe storing and precise centering bolts with a nut for improved functionality.
Even the price won't shock you since, despite the reliable German quality and advanced design, this tool is within the mid-range products price-wise.
And the customers are more than pleased with customer service and fast item arrival.
- Excellent quality
- Heavy-duty materials
- Easy to use
- Comfortable
- Non-stick surface
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And last but not least, Davaon Pro Switch Secateurs enter our list as the most powerful model on the market that, with its two-in-one design cuts through the hard branches and roots.
First of all, what makes these secateurs ultra-strong are the heat-treated, SK5 carbon steel blades additionally coated with non-stick Teflon to resist sap and other sticky materials. The handles are made of heavy-duty aluminum and covered with a comfortable, anti-slip grip.
Now, its unique design features two cutting modes- ratchet, and single cut mode. The ratchet mechanism is designed for hard, thick branches as it enhances your hand's power with each click.
You squeeze; it clicks and moves to the next setting, increasing the pressure to deal with hard branches.
With a simple flick of a switch, you change to mode to single cut, designed to deal with thinner stems up to 18mm in diameter.
These secateurs have a very lightweight, ergonomic design with a comfortable grip, safe for use as its surface is anti-slip and anti-stick.
I admit this model is a bit expensive, but having in mind it offers five times more power than other similar alternatives, it is worth it.
Plus, it comes with a customer satisfaction guarantee, so you don't have to worry about any malfunctions.
- Super powerful
- Two cutting modes
- Strong blades
- Heavy-duty body
- Comfortable grip
- Easy to use
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The thickest stems and branches do not stand a chance against this unbeatable duo from Davaon. This set includes bypass and anvil secateurs, proven to work on stems and branches up to 20mm in diameter.
When it comes to Davaon tools, making an introduction is unnecessary, as their gadgets and tools are already an inevitable part of every gardener’s toolbox. Why?
First of all, the secateurs in question incorporate a geared system technology, requiring 20% less effort for manual use. This is essential for gardeners working for hours, as such a design reduces strain and fatigue.
Next off, the Davaon secateurs are built of high-quality, long-lasting materials. Heat-treated SK5 steel blades, in combination with anti-corrosion fibreglass handles and shock-absorbing springs, guarantee years of use with minimal damages.
Finally, the soft-grips, comfortable handles ensure you won’t end up with blisters and pain in your wrists. The secateurs are pretty lightweight, hence effortless for use, even when the task is more demanding than you expected.
The price is affordable, yet not the most budget-friendly offer you can find. Still, given that you get two secateurs in the set, it’s worth considering.
- Comfortable grip
- High-quality materials
- Geared design
- Rust-resistant
- Affordable
- Not suitable for people with arthritis
What else can we expect from Spear and Jackson than a professional heavy-duty tool built to last and provide unmatched performance? Although we’re talking about secateurs only, Spear and Jackson have once again proved that every tool, no matter how simple, can be brought to another level.
What we have here are professional high-grade bypass garden secateurs. Due to the first-grade carbon steel blade with a cutting notch and sap groove, these secateurs are incredibly effective and durable. This is probably the reason why Spear and Jackson gave a 10-year warranty for this item.
The secateurs are adjustable, offering two cutting widths. And, besides being effective and durable, they are comfortable for use also. Namely, the ergonomic forged aluminium handles fit into your hands perfectly, reducing the strain and pressure on your wrists.
Still not convinced? Let me tell you that this tool won the 2018 Grow Your Own British growing award, proving its worth and quality. Although three years have passed since then, be assured they are still at the very top of the market.
- High-grade materials
- Award-winner
- 10-year warranty
- Two cutting widths
- Professional design
- A few customers noticed corrosion after a while
Here we have pretty standard anvil secateurs from Felco, designed with precision and excellence in mind and approved by professional horticulturalists and discerning gardeners. Ever since 1945, Felco has been producing magnificent Swiss tools, proven to work and last as long as you need them.
Their model four is, in fact, the basic version of model two. The only difference is that this model doesn’t have a rubber shock-absorbing cushion or the locking segment. These secateurs are intended for domestic use, and the blade is adjusted by the centre bolt and nut.
What makes these Felco secateurs, so reliable is the simple yet heavy-duty design. Namely, the forged aluminium blade, and riveted anvil blade made of hardened steel, provide a sharp, clean-cut for more precision and better results.
Despite these high-grade materials, they managed to make the secateurs honestly lightweight, so the manoeuvring isn’t too demanding. Also, the ergonomic non-slip handle design additionally ensures comfortability and convenience of use.
When it comes to the price, it is a bit higher than average, yet be assured it’s for a reason.
- High-grade materials
- Reliable manufacturer
- Swiss precision
- Lightweight design
- Non-slip handle
- No locking mechanism
Another incredible model from Spear & Jackson enters our list. Given the justified reputation of this brand, it’s by no means easy to decide which of their models is the best, hence so many Spear & Jackson secateurs on this list.
What characterises this model, in particular, is the upgraded innovative design that facilitates the use and handling. It comes with large handles, covered in bi-material, for a comfortable non-slip grip and painless handling.
Moreover, these bypass Spear & Jackson secateurs feature SK5 carbon steel blades coated in PTFE for rust resistance and smooth, precise cutting.
Besides the noted advantages, these secateurs are unique because of the drop nose blades for easier pruning and a sap groove in the blade.
The Spear & Jackson secateurs feature an ergonomic design and thicker coating on the handles; thus, they are honestly convenient for use even when you need to work on your garden for hours.
They weigh only 210g, and the exact dimensions are 22 x 6 x 2.5 cm, which has proven ideal for both men and women.
- Lightweight
- Sharp
- Coated blades
- Rust-resistant
- Ideal dimensions
- Affordable
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Buyer's guide: How to Select the Best Garden Secateurs?
Before you decide to buy garden secateurs, there are a few basic things you should know to choose a genuinely high-quality tool that will perform in the desired way.
When it comes to the best garden secateurs, there are three main types based on the cutting mechanism :
- 1Anvil
- 2Bypass
- 3Scissors
The anvil secateurs are the best option for thick branches and deadwood. Their mechanism imitates the knife and board action- a sharp cutting blade crushes the branch down onto the anvil. I would recommend them for heavy-duty pruning tasks.
Bypass secateurs are designed for green, thinner branches and live stem. In their case, the cutting blade bypasses the anvil as it closes and produces a clean, precise cut. Therefore, you can put these to a variety of uses and even prune the plant near the bud as the cut is extremely precise.
Finally, scissors are garden secateurs consisting of two blades that move simultaneously. Therefore, they cannot cut through hard branches and thicker stems but are made explicitly for greens and flowers.
Now, when you choose the best garden secateurs, these are the features you should check:
1. The Blades
Efficient secateurs rely entirely on heavy-duty blades. When it comes to material, the safest option is to choose the models with either stainless steel or carbon steel.
Now, stainless steel is durable, sharp, and, most importantly, rust-resistant. On the other hand, carbon steel is more reliable and durable than stainless steel, but it lacks the corrosion resistance, which is why it often comes with an appropriate coating.
2. Ergonomics
As these tools are made of heavy-duty steel, they can be cumbersome and cause the pain in your wrists.
That is why it is of high importance to look for the secateurs with ergonomic handles covered in soft, grip-friendly materials that won't cause you blisters or pain after longer use.
3. Safety Switch
Once again, I remind you the blades on secateurs are dangerously sharp. Imagine storing them in your toolbox and accidentally grabbing the edge instead of something else- not a pleasant scenario.
Therefore, nowadays, secateurs are made with a safety switch that enables you to store them away in a secured closed position safely.
4. The Weight
Finally, what gardeners care about the most when it comes to secateurs is their weight.
When your manual tools are too heavy, they are practically useless as they put too much pressure on your wrists, especially with a squeezing mechanism that secateurs rely on.
Hence, always check how heavy the model is, everything around 100-200g is fine, but everything beyond will be tricky to use for some more extended period.
Finally, If you're a novice in gardening and haven't done any pruning, you could use some professional tips for beginners. So, I advise you to watch these two useful videos below before you put the secateurs to some use.
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FAQs
What are the best garden secateurs?
Garden secateurs can be divided into two groups. The first group are bypass secateurs, while the second group are anvil secateurs.
Despite their more than affordable price, JEOutdoors ZEM Pruning Shears are considered the best bypass garden secateurs on the market. The reason why they’re so popular are the heavy-duty, sharp blades effective even when dealing with thick branches and stems. In addition to this, they are also pretty lightweight and comfortable for handling.
When it comes to anvil secateurs, GARDENA Garden Secateurs are ruling the market. The reason for it is their powerful heavy-duty design that’s maximally adapted to ensure the secateurs do their job with the minimal human effort invested.
What is the difference between pruners and secateurs?
Basically, there is no difference between the pruners and secateurs.
While the term “secateurs” is common in Great Britain, “pruners” is how Americans and Canadians call this simple tool used by gardeners for cutting the stems and branches.
Which is better - anvil or bypass secateurs?
It’s hard to say which type of secateurs is better since they are used for different tasks.
Bypass secateurs are generally utilised for gentle work when you honestly care about damaging the plant as little as possible. On the other hand, anvil secateurs generate power due to wide cutting-width that most definitely requires less force for a perfectly executed cut.
Hence, both models are efficient in the tasks they are intended for, so you should have both models in your toolbox.
Final Thoughts
Once again, remember that pruning is vital for growing healthy, thriving horticulture, so don't forget to include this practice into your gardening routine.
As for the tools needed, the best garden secateurs you can buy are JEOutdoors ZEM Pruning Shears.
These bypass secateurs include heavy-duty, rust-resistant, sharp blades, ergonomic handle, weight no more than 150g, and have a safety lock.
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Last Updated on February 24, 2022 by Sean
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