What are pruners used for?
Loppers are used to cut and maintain tree and shrub branches, making it easier to manage tall and hard-to-reach plants. These tools are indispensable for various gardening activities, including:
- Tree pruning: ideal for maintaining the shape and health of trees by removing dry or diseased branches.
- Hedge management: useful for shaping and maintaining neat and well-groomed hedges.
- Removing dangerous branches: important for preventing damage to people or property caused by unstable branches.
- Maintaining green spaces: helps keep gardens and parks clean and tidy.
Pruners are suitable for different categories of users, from professionals to hobbyists. Petrol and pneumatic models are suitable for professional and intensive use, while electric and battery-powered models are ideal for domestic and semi-professional work. The choice of pruner type depends on specific usage requirements, considering factors such as the power required, frequency of use and accessibility of the areas to be pruned.
How are branch cutters made and how do they work?
Pruners are composed of several parts that determine their effectiveness and use. Let's see how they are made and how they work:
- Motor: the heart of the pruner, which can be electric or battery-powered. The motor is used to move the blade or chain around the cutting bar, which then actually cuts the branches.
- Pole: an element that allows you to reach great heights. Poles can be fixed, separable into two pieces, or telescopic with lengths varying from 175 to 380 cm.
- Blade: the end part of the pruner, available in different lengths from 15 to 30 cm. Some models are equipped with an adjustable head that allows the blade to be tilted in different positions to facilitate cutting.
- Lubrication: some pruners have a separate reservoir for chain lubrication, while others integrate this function into the machine's structure.
The operation of a pruner varies depending on the type of engine:
- Petrol pruners: started by a pull cord, the petrol engine drives the chain through a transmission system. Ideal for heavy work thanks to their power.
- Electric pruners: started by a switch, they require a power outlet to operate. They are quieter and lighter than petrol models and are suitable for light work.
- Battery-powered pruners: similar to electric pruners but powered by a rechargeable battery. They offer greater mobility and are suitable for work in areas without access to electricity.
- Pneumatic branch cutters: these operate using compressed air supplied by an air compressor. They are lightweight and powerful and are mainly used by professionals.
Advantages of pruners or loppers
Pruners offer numerous advantages that make them indispensable tools for maintaining green spaces. Here is a list of the main advantages of each type of pruner:
- High power: petrol pruners offer superior power, ideal for intensive and continuous work, allowing you to tackle thick and hard branches with ease.
- Unlimited mobility: battery-powered pruners offer great freedom of movement as they are not restricted by electrical cables. They are perfect for working in open spaces and areas that are difficult to access.
- Lightweight and easy to handle: electric pruners are lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, ideal for precision work and for users looking for an easy-to-use tool.
- Quiet: electric pruners operate quietly, reducing noise pollution and causing less disturbance when used in residential areas.
- Low maintenance: electric pruners and battery-powered pruners require less maintenance than petrol models as they do not have components such as air filters or spark plugs that need replacing.
- Lightweight and easy to use: air compressor-powered pneumatic pruners are very lightweight and easy to use, ideal for professionals who need powerful yet manoeuvrable tools.
- Versatility in applications: telescopic pruners allow you to reach great heights, making them ideal for pruning tall trees without the use of ladders.
- Working autonomy: petrol and battery-powered pruners offer good working autonomy, allowing you to complete pruning operations without frequent interruptions to refuel or recharge batteries.
Types of pruners or branch cutters
There are different types of branch cutters, each suited to specific needs. The main types of pruners are:
Petrol branch cutters
Petrol pruners are equipped with powerful 2- or 4-stroke engines, designed to develop over 1 Hp. These tools are ideal for those who need a sturdy tool for heavy and constant use. They use mixed fuel or petrol, with cylinders ranging from 21.2 to 58 cc and nominal power ratings from 0.9 to 3.48 HP.
The extendable pole allows you to reach branches located at a height of over 5 metres thanks to lengths exceeding 4 metres. They offer high power, allowing you to cut thick and hard branches without difficulty, ideal for intensive work. The autonomy does not depend on a power source, allowing use in any location.
Electric branch cutters
Electric pruners are lightweight and practical tools, perfect for small pruning jobs. They require mains power to operate, making them ideal for use in areas with access to a power outlet.
The electric motor is powered by a mains socket with voltages ranging from 105 to 230 V and power ratings from 600 to 800 W. The fixed or extendable pole allows you to make cuts at heights of over 4 metres. These tools are lighter than petrol models, making them easier to handle and use for long periods of time. They operate more quietly, reducing noise pollution.
Battery-powered loppers
Battery-powered pruners use rechargeable batteries, eliminating the need for mains power and making them much more versatile than electric models.
They are ideal for small pruning jobs in gardens, hedges and domestic environments. The battery-powered motor is powered by one or more rechargeable batteries, with capacities ranging from 2 to 17 Ah. They offer great mobility, as they do not require a mains power supply. They are lightweight and easy to use, ideal for domestic use.
Pneumatic pruners
Pneumatic pruners include compressed air chainsaws powered by an air compressor or motor compressor. They are mainly used by professionals due to their light weight and lack of a built-in motor.
The compressed air power supply requires an air compressor to operate, ensuring constant power. The absence of a motor significantly reduces the weight of the tool. They can be used manually or mounted on telescopic poles, making them very durable over time thanks to fewer mechanical components to wear out.
Technical characteristics of pruners
This category includes all petrol, electric, battery-powered and pneumatic pruners from the world's leading manufacturers. Choosing the best pruner for your needs can be difficult when faced with such a wide range of products. This is why AgriEuro offers its expertise, simplifying the decision-making process through the use of advanced filters. This allows users to narrow down their choice to a few models once they have selected the essential features they require.
We have a vast range of pruners, by far the most varied selection of brands and product types available online.
The main technical characteristics and functions of the pruners are described below:
Engine type
The type of engine is one of the most important features of pruners, influencing both the performance and specific use of the tool. There are three main types of engines used in pruners: combustion, electric and battery-powered.
- Internal combustion engine: Internal combustion engines are known for their power and autonomy, ideal for intensive and continuous work. These engines can be fuelled by a mixture or petrol and are available in 2-stroke or 4-stroke versions.
- Electric motor: Electric pruners are powered by a mains socket and offer immediate start-up and reduced maintenance compared to petrol engines.
- Battery-powered engine: Battery-powered engines offer the convenience of cordless use, making them very versatile and suitable for work in open spaces or without access to electricity.
Pruner pole
The pole pruner's pole is crucial in determining its ability to reach high heights and the ease of use of the tool. There are different configurations and materials that affect the performance and ergonomics of the pole.
- Fixed pole: Lighter and less expensive, a fixed pole does not allow you to reach great heights. The length varies from 180 to 350 cm, making it suitable for work at medium heights.
- 2-piece pole (separable): This type of pole can be divided into two parts for easy transport and storage. It is a practical solution for those who need a versatile and easy-to-store pruner.
- Telescopic pole: More expensive and heavier, it allows you to reach greater heights, up to 380 cm. It is ideal for pruning very high branches without the use of ladders.
Pole materials
- Aluminium: More economical and durable, but also heavier. It is a common choice due to its durability.
- Carbon: More expensive but significantly lighter than aluminium. It reduces fatigue during prolonged use and improves the manoeuvrability of the tool.
Blade length
The length of the cutting blade or cutting bar determines the pruner's ability to handle branches of different sizes.
- Variable length: The blade length varies from 15 to 30 cm. A longer blade allows you to cut thicker branches, while a shorter blade offers greater precision for detailed work.
Swivel head
Some pruner models are equipped with an adjustable head that allows the blade to be tilted to different positions. This allows you to make cuts in hard-to-reach places without having to change your body position.
Included accessories
Several pruners can be equipped with accessories that increase their versatility and ease of use.
- Hedge trimmer accessory: Some pruners include a hedge trimmer accessory, transforming the tool into a multifunctional tool.
- LCD display: Makes it easier to read the information provided by the machine, such as battery charger or power output.
- Quick chain tensioner: Allows you to quickly tension the chain without having to remove the cover, making maintenance easier and faster.
Separate lubrication
The chain lubrication reservoir can be separated from the cutting apparatus. This configuration facilitates maintenance and provides an extension to the useful life of the machine, ensuring constant chain lubrication.
Housing material
The housing material affects the strength and overall weight of the pruner.
- Aluminium: Strong and durable, but heavier.
- Plastic: Lightweight and less expensive, but may be less durable.
- Magnesium/aluminium: Combines strength and lightness, but at a higher cost.
- Polypropylene: Lightweight and impact-resistant, offering a good compromise between weight and durability.
Pruner buying guide
When purchasing a pruner, it is important to evaluate various technical characteristics and features to ensure you choose the tool that best suits your needs. Here is a detailed buying guide with advice on how to choose the best pruners for your needs.
- Type of use: Identify whether the pruner will be used for professional, semi-professional or hobby use. For intensive and continuous use, petrol models are recommended, while for small domestic jobs, electric or battery-powered models may be sufficient.
- Motor power: Motor power is crucial in determining the effectiveness of the pruner. Petrol engines offer more power, while electric and battery-powered engines are more suitable for light and less demanding jobs.
- Working height: Consider the maximum height you need to reach. Telescopic poles allow you to work on very high branches without the use of ladders, while fixed or separable poles are suitable for medium heights.
- Weight and manoeuvrability: The weight of the pruner affects ease of use and operator fatigue. Electric pruners and battery-powered pruners are generally lighter than petrol models.
- Ergonomics and comfort: Choose a pruner with ergonomic handles and balanced weight to reduce fatigue during prolonged use.
- Autonomy: For work away from power sources, a battery-powered pruner with good autonomy is essential.
- Ease of maintenance: Models with quick chain tensioner and separate lubrication simplify maintenance and extend the tool's service life.
Types of customers
Different types of customers can benefit from pruners, each with specific needs and uses. Here is a list of ideal customers and their needs:
- Gardening professionals: They use these tools for intensive and continuous pruning of trees and shrubs in large gardens or parks. Recommended technical features: Powerful combustion engine, long telescopic pole, long blade, separate lubrication tank.
- Hobbyists: They use these tools for regular maintenance of domestic gardens and small hedges. Recommended technical features: Battery-powered or electric motor, fixed or detachable pole, low weight, easy to handle.
- Homeowners with gardens: They use these tools for occasional pruning of trees and plants in their home gardens. Recommended technical features: Electric motor, moderate blade length, manual configuration.
- Public park operators: They use these tools for the maintenance of public green areas, including the pruning of tall trees. Recommended technical features: combustion engine or pneumatic motor, long telescopic pole, resistant and durable materials.
- Farmers: They use these tools for pruning orchards and vineyards, requiring powerful and resistant tools. Recommended technical features: internal combustion engine, telescopic pole, long and resistant blade, multifunctional accessories.
The best brands of pruners on AgriEuro
Choosing a pruner from a reliable brand guarantees quality, performance and durability. Here is a list of the main brands available on AgriEuro, each with a brief description of their distinctive features.
- Campagnola pruners: Campagnola is a historic brand in the agricultural tools sector, known for innovation and quality. These tools offer high performance and ease of use, ensuring precision and efficiency in pruning operations.
- Makita pruners and loppers: Makita is a world-renowned Japanese brand known for the quality and durability of its tools. Makita pruners are designed to offer high performance and long life, ideal for both professionals and demanding hobbyists.
- Volpi branch pruners: Volpi is an Italian brand with a long tradition in the manufacture of agricultural and gardening tools. Volpi pruners are appreciated for their reliability and ease of use, ideal for domestic and professional pruning operations.
- GeoTech branch cutters: GeoTech is a brand renowned for offering sturdy and reliable gardening and agricultural equipment that is excellent value for money. Their range offers sturdiness and consistent performance, making these tools ideal for hobbyists and professionals looking for quality without spending a fortune.
- Greenworks pruners: Greenworks is a leader in battery-powered tools with a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability. Greenworks pruners are lightweight, quiet and environmentally friendly, offering excellent performance for small domestic pruning jobs.
- Zanon pruners: Zanon is an Italian brand renowned for producing high-quality agricultural and gardening equipment. Zanon pruners are sturdy and powerful, designed for intensive and professional use.
Why buy pruners from AgriEuro?
Buying pruners on AgriEuro offers numerous advantages that make the shopping experience practical and convenient. Here are the main reasons why it is worth choosing AgriEuro for your pruner purchase:
- Fast and free shipping: AgriEuro manages logistics internally, ensuring fast shipping at no additional cost. This ensures that products arrive quickly and without any surprises on the final price.
- Spare parts always available: AgriEuro offers the possibility to order spare parts for all purchased products. This service is essential for keeping your pruners in perfect condition and extending their life.
- Attentive and personalised after-sales service: AgriEuro's customer service is always available to provide support and assistance after purchase. This includes technical advice, support for any problems and guidance on how to use the products.
These reasons make AgriEuro a reliable and convenient choice for purchasing pruners, offering security, support and quality to its customers.
Discover our wide range of pruners available on AgriEuro and find the perfect tool for your pruning needs.
FAQs about pruners or loppers
1. What tools does a pruner use?
Pruners use a variety of specific tools to make precise cuts and maintain plant health. The main tools include:
- Electric branch cutters: Ideal for work in residential areas thanks to their quietness and ease of use. They are connected to the mains and guarantee constant power.
- Battery-powered branch cutters: These offer greater freedom of movement than electric models. They are lightweight, easy to handle and ideal for medium-sized gardens.
- Petrol-powered loppers: Suitable for more intensive and prolonged work. They run on petrol and offer high power but are heavier and require regular maintenance.
- Pneumatic branch cutters: These use compressed air to operate. They are powerful and suitable for large-scale professional work but require an air compressor.
2. When to choose a battery-powered, petrol or pneumatic electric pruner?
The choice of pruner type depends on your specific work requirements:
- Electric pruner: Perfect for domestic gardens and small pruning jobs. Ideal if you have easily accessible power sockets.
- Battery-powered pruner: Ideal for those who need mobility without the hassle of cables. Great for medium-sized gardens and light work.
- Petrol pruner: Suitable for intensive, professional work on large surfaces. Ideal for those who need high power and durability.
- Pneumatic pruner: Chosen for large-scale professional work. Requires an air compressor but offers high power and precision.
3. How does the pneumatic pruner work?
The pneumatic pruner works thanks to compressed air supplied by an air compressor. Here's how the process works:
- Air compressor: Compressed air is compressed and stored in a tank.
- Connection hose: The compressed air is transported to the pruner via a flexible hose.
- Internal mechanism: The compressed air powers an internal piston that drives the pruner blade.
- Cutting: The piston moves the blade quickly and precisely, allowing for clean, sharp cuts on branches and trunks.
Pneumatic pruners are valued for their power and durability, making them ideal for intensive and professional work.
4. How long does the battery of a pruner last?
The battery life of a pruner varies depending on the capacity of the battery itself and the intensity of the work. On average, a fully charged battery can last from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the specifications of the pruner and the type of work to be done.
Here are some factors that affect battery life:
- Battery capacity (Ah): A battery with a higher capacity (ampere hours) offers a longer working time.
- Work intensity: More intensive and prolonged work consumes the battery charger more quickly.
- Battery type: Lithium batteries offer longer life than lead-acid or nickel-cadmium batteries.
6. When to prune fruit trees?
Pruning fruit trees is essential to ensure good production and plant health. Here are the ideal times for pruning:
- Winter (dry pruning): Prune during the dormant season, generally between January and February. This allows you to remove dry, diseased or damaged branches and shape the plant.
- Spring (green pruning): Carry out green pruning between May and June, when the tree is in full vegetation. This serves to eliminate excess branches and improve light penetration and air circulation.
- Summer (summer pruning): In some cases, light summer pruning can be useful to reduce the vigour of the tree and stimulate fruit production.
7. How to prune an olive tree?
To prune an olive tree requires care and knowledge of specific techniques. Here are the main steps:
- Removing suckers: Remove vigorous branches that grow vertically from the trunk or main branches. These branches take energy from the plant without producing fruit.
- Thinning the canopy: Reduce the density of the canopy to improve light penetration and air circulation. Cut branches that cross or grow inwards.
- Maintaining shape: Prune branches to maintain an open, vase-like shape. This makes harvesting fruit easier and reduces the risk of disease.
- Removing dead or diseased branches: Remove all dead, damaged or infected branches to prevent the spread of disease.
8. What are the most common pruning techniques?
Pruning techniques vary depending on the type of plant and the objectives to be achieved. Here are some of the most common techniques:
- Formative pruning: Performed in the early years of the plant's life to give it a strong, well-defined structure. It consists of removing excess branches and guiding the growth of the main branches.
- Maintenance pruning: Performed regularly to maintain the shape and health of the plant. It includes the removal of dry, diseased or damaged branches.
- Production pruning: Focused on increasing fruit production. It consists of thinning out branches to improve light penetration and encourage the formation of fruit buds.
9. What is the difference between green pruning and dry pruning?
Green pruning and dry pruning are two pruning techniques used at different times of the year and for specific purposes. Here are the main differences:
- Green pruning: This is carried out during the active growing season of plants, generally in spring and summer. It serves to improve light penetration and air circulation by removing superfluous vigorous or excess branches. It also helps to prevent diseases and pests. The cuts are light and aimed at removing unproductive branches or those that compromise the structure of the plant.
- Dry pruning: This is carried out during the dormant period, usually in winter when the plant has lost its leaves. It aims to shape the plant, remove dry, diseased or damaged branches and prepare the plant for the new growing season. Cuts can be more drastic than green pruning, removing larger and older branches.
10. How do you prune roses?
Pruning roses is essential for keeping the plant healthy, promoting abundant flowering and preventing disease. Rose pruning should generally be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Here are the main steps for pruning roses:
- Necessary tools: Use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant and prevent infection.
- Removing dead and damaged branches: Start by removing all dead, diseased or damaged branches by cutting them at the base or at a healthy point on the branch.
- Thinning cuts: Remove branches that grow towards the inside of the plant or that cross with other branches to improve air circulation and light penetration.
- Pruning main branches: Shorten the main branches to stimulate new shoot growth. Make cuts above an outer bud to encourage open, well-distributed growth.
- Shape control: Maintain a balanced and harmonious shape by avoiding leaving branches that are too long or untidy.
- Final cleaning: Remove all pruning debris from the ground around the plant to prevent disease and promote good garden hygiene.