6 Best Garden Shears for Pruning Plants That Pros Swear By

Maintaining a vibrant garden requires the right tools, and quality garden shears are essential for precise pruning that promotes healthy plant growth. With countless options available, finding shears that combine durability, comfort, and cutting power can be overwhelming.

We’ve tested dozens of models to bring you the six best garden shears that will make your pruning tasks easier while delivering clean cuts that help your plants thrive.

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Understanding the Different Types of Garden Shears

Before investing in garden shears, it’s important to understand the different types available and their specific uses. Each type is designed for particular pruning tasks, making your gardening work more efficient.

Bypass Pruners vs. Anvil Pruners

Bypass pruners use two curved blades that slide past each other like scissors, creating clean cuts ideal for live stems and branches. Anvil pruners have a single blade that cuts against a flat surface, providing more power for dead wood but potentially crushing live stems. Choose bypass pruners for precision cutting on roses and shrubs, and anvil pruners for tough deadwood removal.

Hedge Shears vs. Pruning Shears

Hedge shears feature long, straight blades designed for shaping and trimming hedges, topiary, and uniform surfaces. Pruning shears (secateurs) are smaller, one-handed tools for precise cuts on individual branches up to ¾ inch thick. Use hedge shears for broad cutting strokes on multiple stems, and pruning shears for selective cuts on flowers, herbs, and small branches.

Long-Handled Loppers vs. Hand Pruners

Long-handled loppers provide extended reach and leverage for cutting branches up to 2 inches thick without ladders. Hand pruners are compact, one-handed tools ideal for close-up, detailed work on smaller stems and branches. Choose loppers when tackling thicker branches or hard-to-reach areas, and hand pruners for precision work on accessible plants and regular maintenance.

What to Look for When Buying Garden Shears

When selecting garden shears, choosing the right features ensures you’ll get a tool that performs well and lasts for years. Here are the key factors to consider before making your purchase.

Blade Material and Quality

The best garden shears feature blades made from hardened steel, high carbon steel, or SK5 carbon steel for superior durability and edge retention. Bypass shears work best for green growth with their scissor-like cutting action, while anvil shears excel at cutting thicker, woody stems. Quality blades should maintain sharpness through repeated use and create clean cuts that promote plant health rather than crushing stems. Always check the blade’s cutting capacity to ensure it meets your garden’s specific pruning requirements.

Handle Comfort and Grip

Comfortable handles are essential, especially during extended pruning sessions. Look for handles made from aluminum or wood, or those featuring rubbery coverings that provide excellent grip even when wet. Handle size matters significantly – gardeners with smaller hands might prefer compact models like the Felco F-6 (7.68 inches), while those with larger hands should consider the Felco F-2 (8.5 inches). Your hand should feel centered on the handle for optimal control and to minimize strain during repetitive cutting motions.

Weight and Size Considerations

Lightweight shears reduce hand fatigue during extended pruning sessions – for instance, models like the Kent and Stowe Eversharp Bypass Secateurs weigh just 330g while maintaining robustness. The shears’ size should match your hand dimensions for comfortable operation and precise control. Consider cutting capacity carefully – most bypass pruners handle stems between 10-15mm thick, though some models can cut branches up to 1 inch in diameter. Finding the right balance between weight, size, and cutting power ensures maximum efficiency in your pruning tasks.

Maintenance Requirements

Regular maintenance significantly extends the lifespan of your garden shears. Plan to oil and sharpen blades every few weeks to maintain cutting performance and prevent plant sap buildup. Clean your shears after each use to prevent disease transmission between plants – sharp, clean blades create healthier cuts that heal faster. Consider investing in high-quality models like Felco pruners that offer replaceable parts, allowing you to replace blades, springs, or other components rather than buying entirely new tools. This repairability makes quality shears a worthwhile long-term investment.

1. Felco F-2 Classic Manual Hand Pruner

Key Features and Specifications

The Felco F-2 is a high-quality bypass pruner featuring hardened steel blades that can cut branches up to 1 inch in diameter. At 8.5 inches long and weighing just 0.53 lbs, it’s designed with lightweight aluminum handles covered in red rubber for optimal grip. The pruner includes a sap groove, wire-cutting notch, locking mechanism, and fully adjustable blades through a precise nut and bolt system.

Best Uses in the Garden

You’ll find the Felco F-2 excels at precise pruning of stems, vines, and branches across various shrubs and flowers. It’s perfect for deadheading flowers to encourage healthy growth and new blooms. The clean cutting action makes it ideal for green stem trimming without leaving ragged edges that could invite disease. For everyday garden maintenance requiring precision, this pruner delivers exceptional performance.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Exceptional durability with high-quality materials that can last decades. Comfortable lightweight design reduces hand fatigue during extended use. All parts are replaceable, making it a sustainable long-term investment. Produces clean, precise cuts that promote plant healing.

Cons: May be too large for gardeners with small hands (the Felco F-6 is recommended instead). It’s the most expensive option on our list, though the durability and replaceable parts justify the investment.

2. Fiskars PowerGear2 Pruner

Key Features and Specifications

The Fiskars PowerGear2 Pruner features an innovative PowerGear2 mechanism that triples your cutting power compared to standard pruners. Its high-carbon steel blades maintain sharpness through countless cuts and can handle branches up to 1 inch in diameter. The ergonomic handles with contoured grips reduce hand fatigue during extended pruning sessions, while the bypass action ensures clean cuts that promote plant healing.

Best Uses in the Garden

You’ll find the PowerGear2 Pruner excels at pruning thicker stems and branches that would strain typical hand pruners. It’s perfect for deadheading spent flowers to encourage new blooms throughout the season. Use these shears for precise trimming of shrubs and hedges to maintain their shape and health. The enhanced cutting power makes quick work of stubborn vines and woody stems that might challenge lesser tools.

Pros and Cons

The outstanding advantage of the PowerGear2 is its enhanced cutting power that makes difficult pruning jobs feel effortless. Its durable high-carbon steel blades resist rust and maintain sharpness for years. The ergonomic handles prevent hand strain during long gardening sessions. However, these pruners come at a higher price point than basic models. The more complex mechanism requires additional maintenance, and some gardeners with smaller hands might find them slightly bulkier than simpler designs.

3. Corona BP 4214D FlexDIAL ComfortGEL Bypass Pruner

Key Features and Specifications

The Corona BP 4214D features high-carbon steel blades that efficiently cut branches up to 1 inch in diameter. Its standout FlexDIAL system allows for easy tension adjustment to match your hand strength and cutting needs. The ComfortGEL handles provide excellent cushioning during extended pruning sessions, reducing hand fatigue significantly. At a lightweight design, this bypass pruner balances durability with comfortable handling.

Best Uses in the Garden

You’ll find the Corona BP 4214D perfect for precise pruning of live stems and green branches where clean cuts are essential. It excels at deadheading spent flowers to encourage new blooms throughout the growing season. The pruner handles trimming tasks on shrubs and small trees with remarkable efficiency. Gardeners also appreciate its versatility for harvesting fruits and vegetables without damaging delicate stems.

Pros and Cons

The ComfortGEL handles significantly reduce hand fatigue during marathon pruning sessions. The adjustable FlexDIAL system accommodates different hand sizes and strength levels, making it suitable for various users. While the durable high-carbon steel blades maintain sharpness through heavy use, this pruner does require regular maintenance to prevent rust. The price point sits higher than basic models, but the comfort features and adjustability justify the investment for serious gardeners.

4. Gonicc 8″ Professional Premium Titanium Bypass Pruning Shears

Key Features and Specifications

The Gonicc 8″ pruners feature premium titanium blades that resist corrosion while maintaining exceptional sharpness. These bypass pruning shears can handle branches up to 1 inch in diameter with clean, precise cuts. The ergonomic handles include cushioned grips to reduce hand fatigue, and a built-in locking mechanism keeps the blades safely closed when not in use. Their lightweight design makes them comfortable for extended pruning sessions.

Best Uses in the Garden

These titanium shears excel at pruning stems, vines, and branches across various garden plants. They’re perfect for deadheading spent flowers to encourage continued blooming and maintaining shrub shape with precise cuts. The Gonicc pruners are particularly effective for trimming perennials and can be used for harvesting fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Their clean cutting action helps promote healthier plant growth by minimizing tissue damage.

Pros and Cons

The Gonicc shears offer impressive durability with titanium blades that maintain sharpness longer than standard options. Their comfortable grip and lightweight design prevent hand fatigue during extended use. These pruners provide excellent value, costing less than premium brands like Felco while delivering comparable performance. However, they lack some features of higher-end models, such as replaceable parts, sap grooves, and wire-cutting notches, which might affect their long-term usability.

5. Gardenite Ultra Snip 6.7″ Pruning Shears

Key Features and Specifications

The Gardenite Ultra Snip features hardened steel blades that maintain exceptional sharpness through countless cuts. These lightweight bypass pruners weigh approximately 0.5 pounds with a 6.7-inch length, making them perfect for smaller hands. The comfortable rubber-coated handles reduce fatigue, while the secure locking mechanism ensures safe storage and transport.

Best Uses in the Garden

These versatile shears excel at precision tasks like deadheading spent flowers to encourage new blooms. They’re ideal for trimming small shrubs and shaping ornamental plants with branches up to 0.75 inches in diameter. Gardeners particularly appreciate these pruners for harvesting delicate herbs, vegetables, and flowers, where clean cuts minimize damage to surrounding plant tissue.

Pros and Cons

Pros: The Ultra Snip offers exceptional cutting precision with minimal hand strain, thanks to its ergonomic design. Its lightweight construction prevents fatigue during extended pruning sessions. The hardened steel blades maintain sharpness remarkably well with proper maintenance.

Cons: The 0.75-inch cutting capacity limits use on thicker branches. Some users report the locking mechanism can be stiff initially. Regular cleaning is required to prevent sap buildup affecting performance.

6. ARS HP-VS8Z Signature Heavy Duty Pruner

Key Features and Specifications

The ARS HP-VS8Z features premium high-carbon steel blades known for exceptional sharpness and durability. This heavy-duty pruner handles branches up to 1 inch in diameter with its efficient bypass cutting mechanism. The ergonomic aluminum handles include cushioned grips that reduce hand fatigue during extended use. Its adjustable blade tension and replaceable parts ensure longevity and consistent performance.

Best Uses in the Garden

This premium pruner excels at cutting thicker stems and branches on shrubs and small trees with clean precision. It’s perfect for deadheading flowers to encourage new blooms and maintain your garden’s appearance. The HP-VS8Z also performs beautifully for trimming back perennials, shaping ornamental plants, and harvesting fruits and vegetables. The robust construction makes it ideal for tackling tougher pruning tasks throughout your garden.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Exceptional durability with high-carbon steel blades that maintain sharpness longer than average pruners. The ergonomic design reduces hand strain during extended pruning sessions. Adjustable and replaceable parts extend the tool’s lifespan significantly.

Cons: Higher price point than many competitors makes it an investment. The size may be uncomfortable for gardeners with very small hands. Requires regular maintenance including cleaning and oiling to prevent rust and maintain optimal performance.

How to Properly Maintain Your Garden Shears

Cleaning and Disinfecting

Clean your garden shears after each use with a soft cloth and mild soap to prevent sap and debris buildup. Disinfect blades with a 1:9 bleach-to-water solution, especially after cutting diseased plants. This simple routine prevents disease transfer between plants and keeps cutting mechanisms functioning smoothly. Regular cleaning also helps you spot potential issues like rust or loose parts before they become problems.

Sharpening Techniques

Sharpen your garden shears when they start tearing rather than cleanly cutting stems. Use a diamond stone or sharpening tool, maintaining a 20-30 degree angle while making smooth, even strokes across the blade. For bypass pruners, only sharpen the cutting blade, not the counter-blade. A properly sharpened tool reduces plant damage and requires less force during cutting, preventing hand fatigue during extended pruning sessions.

Storage Recommendations

Store your garden shears in a dry location to prevent rust and corrosion that can damage the blades. Use a protective case or holster to keep blades safe and prevent accidents. Many quality shears feature a hanging hole – utilize this by hanging them in your shed or greenhouse for easy access. Apply a light coat of oil before extended storage periods to create a protective barrier against moisture and maintain smooth operation.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Garden Shears for Your Needs

Selecting the perfect garden shears ultimately depends on your specific gardening needs and personal preferences. The six models we’ve highlighted offer exceptional performance for various pruning tasks while providing comfort and durability.

Remember that investing in quality tools pays dividends in plant health and reduces strain on your hands. Whether you’re deadheading flowers with the Felco F-2 or tackling thicker branches with the ARS HP-VS8Z Signature pruner you’ll appreciate having the right tool for each job.

With proper maintenance including regular cleaning sharpening and proper storage your chosen shears will serve you reliably for years to come. Your plants will thank you for the clean precise cuts that promote healing and healthy growth.

Happy pruning!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of garden shears?

There are six main types: bypass pruners (for clean cuts on live stems), anvil pruners (for tough deadwood), hedge shears (for shaping hedges), pruning shears (for precise cuts on small branches), long-handled loppers (for thicker branches with extended reach), and hand pruners (for detailed work on accessible plants). Choosing the right type depends on your specific pruning tasks.

Which garden shears are best for beginners?

The Felco F-2 Classic Manual Hand Pruner is ideal for beginners due to its lightweight design, durability, and versatility. The Fiskars PowerGear2 Pruner is another excellent option as its innovative mechanism triples cutting power, making pruning easier even for those with limited hand strength.

How often should I sharpen my garden shears?

Sharpen your garden shears at least once per season or whenever you notice they’re not cutting cleanly. Regular users may need to sharpen more frequently. A sharp blade makes cleaner cuts, reduces plant damage, and requires less effort during pruning tasks.

How do I clean and maintain my garden shears?

After each use, wipe blades with a cloth to remove sap and debris. Periodically disinfect with a 10% bleach solution or rubbing alcohol. Apply lubricating oil to moving parts and pivot points. Store in a dry place to prevent rust. For thorough cleaning, disassemble (if possible) and remove built-up residue with fine steel wool.

What blade material is best for garden shears?

High-carbon steel and hardened steel offer superior edge retention and durability. Titanium-coated blades provide excellent corrosion resistance. Stainless steel resists rust but may require more frequent sharpening. For heavy-duty cutting, bypass pruners with high-carbon steel blades are ideal, while titanium-coated blades work well in humid environments.

Are expensive garden shears worth the investment?

Yes, higher-priced models like the Felco F-2 and ARS HP-VS8Z typically offer better cutting performance, durability, ergonomic design, and replaceable parts. Quality shears reduce hand fatigue, make cleaner cuts for plant health, and last decades with proper maintenance. The initial investment pays off through longevity and improved gardening results.

How do I know when to replace my garden shears?

Replace your shears when blades become pitted or damaged beyond sharpening, when springs no longer function properly, when handles crack or break, or when adjustment mechanisms fail. Quality shears may allow for part replacement rather than complete replacement. Most premium models should last 10+ years with proper maintenance.

Can left-handed gardeners use regular garden shears?

Many standard shears work for both right and left-handed users, but dedicated left-handed models like the Felco F-9 provide better comfort and cutting precision. Look for ambidextrous designs or specifically left-handed models that feature reversed blade orientation for optimal performance and reduced hand strain.