What Are Tree Loppers?

The pruning and cutting of plants, shrubs, and trees in the garden is essential to its health and appearance. Tree Loppers are a specialist tool used to cut thicker branches and larger pieces of wood from trees and other large plants that require a stronger and more precise cutting action than hand pruners can achieve. This is done to help direct growth, avoid hazards, and promote the overall well-being of the plant.

In the UK, the word “lopper” refers to a type of pruner or cutter that is specifically designed for removing branches and larger pieces of wood from trees and shrubs. These can be either manual or powered. Some have a lever system that allows the user to increase the force applied to the blades. Others use a ratchet mechanism that lets the handle be opened and closed multiple times, increasing the leverage on the blades.

Unlike hand pruners, which have a single pair of blades that work in a scissor-like motion, loppers typically have two pairs of blades that latch together at the fulcrum and close in a side-by-side action. They come in two main types, with either bypass or anvil blades. The former operate like a pair of scissors, with the upper blade cutting past a thinner lower base as they close. They’re good for clean cuts on live growth, while anvil loppers are better suited to thicker dead growth or other material that requires less precision.

Some loppers have interchangeable blades to cater for different pruning jobs and can be swapped between them at will, depending on the size of the branch or plant being worked on. This is useful for those who have several kinds of loppers in their arsenal and want to switch between them as they work on a variety of different plants. Having a good pair of quality loppers in the garden can save time and effort, helping to maintain a tidy and attractive landscape without relying on expensive machinery.

While a tree lopper can be a good solution for some pruning jobs, it is important to remember that they are not certified arborists and are not trained in the proper care of trees. An arborist has a degree in forestry or horticulture and has been professionally trained in the care of trees and other plants. They are more than qualified to assess the long-term health of a tree, and will not only be able to advise the homeowner on the best course of action for their particular trees, but will also provide the necessary documentation to ensure that they are insured for the risks involved with working at heights.

A professional tree lopper will be able to remove and trim trees in a safe manner, ensuring that there are no safety risks and avoiding any damage to the plant or property. They will also be able to give advice on how best to maintain the shape of a tree by pruning it appropriately, which can encourage its growth and improve its longevity.

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