During the average growing season, hedges have to be trimmed on a weekly basis to keep them in shape. Otherwise, the growth will be directed outwards, leaving the center of the hedges hallow. This not only makes them look unsightly, but it can introduce diseases from the stress that it puts on the plants.
Many homeowners dread trimming their hedges because it usually takes so many hours to do with a pair of clippers. And who wants to have to drag an electric version along with a cord that is several hundred feet in length all over the property just to reach them all? Luckily, there is a solution to these problems. All you need is a cordless hedge trimmer.
What Are the Advantages of Cordless Hedge Trimmers?
Cordless hedge trimmers operate on a rechargeable battery, so you don’t have to keep them plugged in the entire time you are working. This is advantageous because you can take them to any part of your lawn without worrying about finding an electrical outlet.
It is also safer because it reduces the risk of shock from the cords getting accidentally cut by the trimmer or the branches falling down.
Not having to worry about a cord also helps to be able to maneuver the trimmer into turns and tight spaces where other styles couldn’t normally reach. So topiaries and ornate hedge designs are easier to do.
Features to Look for in a Cordless Hedge Trimmer
A high-quality cordless hedge trimmer is an important piece of equipment that will last for many years if it’s treated right. But it’s just going to end up sitting in the corner of the garage if it doesn’t have the following features that are needed to accomplish regular hedge-trimming tasks:
Adequate Blade Length
Cordless hedge trimmers come with several different blade lengths. Some even have adjustable blades that can be lengthened and shortened to suit a homeowner’s needs. Most of them are sold with one main blade that can’t be changed. Professional grade trimmers have longer blades than those sold for home use. So sometimes, it’s beneficial for a homeowner who has a lot of hedges to buy one.
Long-Lasting Battery
The smaller the amount of voltage on the battery for a cordless hedge trimmer, the shorter the amount of time that it will last. And this is going to be very frustrating because you will have to keep stopping in the middle of the trimming because you ran out of power. So choose one that is a minimum of 19 volts. That way, it will give you at least an hour of use before you have to charge it again.
Lightweight Design
It’s important to remember when you’re buying a cordless hedge trimmer that you are going to have to carry it around for a long period of time. If it’s too heavy, then it will end up hurting your back, arms and hands after a while. Choosing a lightweight version that is about 10 pounds will make holding the tool much easier.
Helpful Tips for Using Hedge Trimmers
If you follow the above mentioned suggestions on choosing the right cordless hedge trimmer, then using it to get your hedges in shape will be a breeze. Still, it helps to have a few helpful tips on the matter.
So first of all, it’s best to think things through before you ever make a cut. Draw out your current hedge pattern on a piece of paper. Then, go outside and take some measurements. Check the height, width and depth of each hedge. If several hedges are growing together in a cluster, then measure them as a whole.
Write all of the information down before forming a plan on what you want the dimensions to be. Be sure to think about what your goals for any small, undeveloped hedges are if you’re planning to train them to grow into a specific shape.
Once you have decided how much that you need to trim off the hedges, you can begin cutting. But bring the paper and tape measure outside with you. Taking frequent measurements will make sure that each hedge has the proper dimensions. Many homeowners don’t know about this process, so they end up with a bunch of irregularly shaped hedges that look bad from a distance.
And lastly, once you have finished all your hedge-trimming work, take some new measurements. Write all of them down too. Keep this paper as a map to follow each time you do any trimming.
Our Cordless Hedge Trimmer Reviews
#1 – DEWALT DCHT820P1 20V Max Hedge Trimmer
The dual action blades are sharp enough for laser cutting accuracy. The great hooked blades are strong enough to cut into branches about 3/4 of an inch thick, so you can trim your hedges in peace knowing that this trimmer is powerful enough for most landscaping chores.
It has a xenoy housing that is made to last. The auxiliary grip handle is great for hand comfort and fatigue prevention while you’re working in your garden. It will ensure your hands can perform the task without difficulty.
#2 – Makita XHU02Z 18V LXT Hedge Trimmer
There are five cushions built in the motor housing that reduce the amount of vibration emitted by the tool. This hedge trimmer is also designed for a smooth trimming process.
It is built to emit about 25% less noise than other battery operated hedge trimmers, so your ears can have a break and enjoy the sounds of the outdoors. In our opinion, this is a good, fairly priced hedge trimmer suitable for residential hedge trimming jobs.
#3 – EGO Power+ 56V Lithium-Ion Cordless Hedge Trimmer
The dual blades are for reduced vibration and a smooth cut so that you won’t be overpowered by this machine. The blade cover is great because it doesn’t rust and will enable you to clean the blade easily.
This hedge trimmer is a strong piece of equipment. If you’re looking for a quality hedge trimmer that can handle tougher jobs relative to other models in its class, this trimmer may be the right one for you.
#4 – Black & Decker LHT2436 40V Cordless Hedge Trimmer
This hedge trimmer has a larger blade compared to some of the other models. It has dual blades for a smoother cut and less vibration.
The blade is also strong enough to cut through branches up to 3/4 of an inch thick, so you can rest assured that this hedge trimmer is strong enough to handle most for your hedge trimming needs.
