Whether you call them topiary shears or garden shears, they are essential for work in your garden! They are the perfect tool to trim back anything from a tiny shrub to a large hedge! Whether you are just wanting to tidy up the shrubs in your garden, or trim them to perfection creating weird and wonderful shapes – a topiary shape is going to help you get the job done.
When looking for the best topiary shears, you need to consider the blades, the handle, the size and much. We have compared all of these so that you don’t have to!
Best Pick – Bosch 600833172 Cordless Edging Shear Set
- The Isio cordless edging and shrub shear set - the perfect companion for day-to-day jobs in the garden
- Anti-Blocking system for stress-free work without interruptions
- Multifunctional A new range of Multi-Click attachments make the Isio even more versatile than before
- Fast charging and low self-discharge thanks to lithium-ion technology
- Items included Bosch Isio, charger, Multi-Click grass shearing blade 8 cm, Multi-Click shrub shearing blade 12 cm, cardboard box
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
In A Hurry?
If your hedges are looking rather unkempt then here are the key pieces of information that you need to think about before purchasing your topiary shears! Covering blades, size and much more, this is what you need to look for when buying.
Blades
One of the key aspects of your topiary shears that needs to be considered are the blades. The blades on topiary shears are designed in a way that allows them to cut through branches with ease. This not only makes your life a lot easier when you are working, but it will also produce a much neater cut on the branches so that they are able to continue to thrive and grow successfully after they have been cut. This helps your shrubs to stay green and healthy even after they have been trimmed.
All blades are going to be metal and the most common choice is carbon steel as this is durable and will stay sharp for longer. Not only that but it can be resharpened to save you money on blades over time.
TOP TIP: We would recommend looking out for models that have blades that can be easily removed. This will make it much easier to get them sharpened or eventually replaced over time without you having to replace the full set of shears.
Once you have decided on the material for your blades you need to consider the length of blade that is going to be best for you. Generally you will find that topiary shears will have shorter blades so that you can be more precise in your cutting and shaping of hedges but if the hedges and shrubs that you are working with are larger than you may be better with a longer blade. We found that blades varied from around 10cm up to about 25cm, which is obviously going to impact quite considerably on the branches that you can reach and cut.
Size and Weight
In general you will find that topiary shears are smaller than standard garden shears or “loppers”. This is because topiary shears are usually used to make precise and accurate cuts into hedging so that it forms a particular shape. This may be something as simple as a bordering hedge with straight sides and a straight top, or it could be something more detailed and wonderful, but either way, a set of topiary shears is going to help you to create those neat lines. But, that being said, there is still a range of sizes to choose between, from as small as around 20cm to as long as around 50cm (including the handle).
This also impacts on the weight of the tool, as you will usually find they are lighter than standard shears. This, again, is important as it will allow you to work and move the shears into different positions without becoming fatigued from the weight of the tool. We found some of the lightest models weigh as little as around 200-250g so you can comfortably use the tool with one hand without a struggle. Whereas heavier models weigh up to around 900g (admittedly this is for a much larger topiary shear but this is still a huge difference in weight).
Build Material
One of the main things that is going to impact on the weight of your topiary shears is the materials that they are made from. This is also going to affect how strong your topiary shears are, the branches that they can cut through and how long you can expect them to last!
Some cheaper sets of topiary shears will be made from plastic around the blades. Using plastic has many benefits as you know that the shears are going to be weatherproof and light. This is great for anyone that suffers with wrist/hand problems or arthritis as you will be able to use these topiary shears for extended periods of time. However, plastic isn’t the strongest of materials so you will find that the shears could crack or become damaged if you try to work through branches that are too big!
If you are wanting topiary shears that are strong and made to last then look out for models that have metal handles/casings around the blade. These will usually be made from carbon steel or aluminium which are both light but strong metals, so perfect for any job that you are wanting to send their way. The only thing to remember is that these materials are prone to rust over time if not properly maintained, so look out for models that are powder coated to protect them from rust and make sure that they are cleaned after use.
Design
There are two main design types that you will find with topiary shears – ones that you have to squeeze shut with your hand and are naturally in an open bladed position and the opposite, models that are naturally shut and have to be pulled and pushed to open and close the blades. The latter is the more traditional style of garden shear and requires you to use both hands to open and shut the blades, however these models do tend to be bigger which means that you can access harder to reach branches and can cut through bigger branches.
The one-handed topiary shears are more modern, allowing you to close the blades around a branch with one hand, which is great for ensuring precision as you can hold the branch in the right place with your other hand when you are cutting. The main compromise to these models is that they are smaller, so are better for those finishing touches rather than large branches.
TOP TIP: If you are opting for models with enclosed handles then make sure to consider the size of the handle itself. Some models have quite small handles which will be uncomfortable and difficult to use if you have larger hands.
Safety Features
Topiary shears are designed to be quite sharp, which is important if you are wanting a precise and accurate cut, but this means that choosing models that come with safety features is essential – particularly if you have young children or pets at home!
There are two main safety features that we found on some of the better topiary shears. One is to have a safety lock on the shears so that they cannot be opened unless the lock is clicked off. This is great for protecting any small, inquisitive hands. The second is models that come with a tip/blade protector. This is usually in the form of a plastic shield that can be put over the blades when they are not in use. This not only helps to make sure that you are safe from the blades when not in use but will actually protect the blades from any wear or damp too over winter months when they are not used as frequently.
Best Budget – Kent & Stowe Perennial Hand Shears
- Triming and shaping: These Kent & Stowe shears are perfect for the year-round training of perennial foliage. Ideal for pruning shrubs, bushes, and box plants.
- Carbon steel: The razor sharp thin bladed shears offer a 4mm cutting diameter and are made from carbon steel which is hollowed for minimal friction, enabling fast, fine cutting.
- Ergonomic handles: The garden shears are designed with ergonomically-shaped handles, which allow for long term use without wrist or hand ache.
- Single-handed use: With an easy one-handed operation, these pruning sheers are efficient and easy to use whilst balancing on a ladder or while holding other garden accessories.
- Scope of delivery: Kent & Stowe Perennial Hand Shears; colour: red/silver; material: carbon steel; product code: 70100500
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
What We Found With The Best Topiary Shears
So you know the main things that you need to think about before purchasing some topiary shears, but if you are serious about the job you have planned and are wanting the best for your budget, then here are the features that we loved in the best topiary shears available!
- Comfort grip handles – Essential for anyone that doesn’t want calloused hands or has a number of hedges to work on. Look out for ergonomic grip handles that are going to support you in keeping hold of the shears but also be soft enough in your hands to reduce fatigue when you are working. The best handles are going to be covered in rubber or similar materials as these will reduce friction when working.
- Non-stick blades – We love non-stick blades as not only do they make it so much easier to clean your topiary shears but they actually make it easier to work with as you won’t find sap and debris sticking to the blades when you are cutting. This stops the blades from clogging up as easily whilst you are working.
- Curved blades – If you are wanting to style your hedges into all manner of weird and wonderful shapes then look out for models with a curved blade. These will allow for a clean cut at varied angles allowing you to work quickly over the whole hedge.
- Anti-jarring – Whilst on the topic, look out for topiary shears with anti-jarring technology. When used alongside non-stick blades you will find you can get a much more successful cut, making the job easier for you and avoiding branches being “torn” instead of cut smoothly which helps to improve the overall finish and the health of the hedge.
- Replaceable spring – The spring that controls the movement of the blades is going to be put under a lot of pressure and work over time. Therefore we would recommend looking out for models where the spring is replaceable. This will help you to ensure your shears are good value for money, as it is much cheaper to replace the shears than it is to replace the whole tool.
- Shock-absorbing handles – These are designed to reduce the vibration and impact when you cut through larger branches. This will reduce the chance of any long-term strain from trimming and pruning, plus will increase the amount of time that you can work for.
Best of the Rest
- SUPERIOR DURABILITY FOR CONTINUED PROFESSIONAL USE: This professional, light weight and razor sharp hedge shears will immediately become your favorite tool for the garden! Ideal for shaping and manicuring boxwood, hedges, shrubs and decorative topiary plants.
- PERFECT SHAPE AND BALANCE. The shears feature soft vinyl cushion grips for extra comfort. The shock-absorbing bumpers stop jarring vibrations and reduce arm and shoulder fatigue. The shorter handles allow for trimming closer to the body at an optimal cutting angle.
- LONG LASTING SHARPNESS: The superior steel and blade treatment make for unsurpassed cutting performance. The fully hardened, lightweight, precision-ground steel blades produce smoothly operated crisp cuts, which will preserve your plant's health. Every cut will be a joyful experience and your plants will thank you.
- DELICATE WORK. Your shrubbery will respond and grow back nicely after using these delicate manual shears: don't hack away at your beautiful boxwood shrubs with powered hedge trimmers!
- ORDER WITH CONFIDENCE. The TABOR TOOLS customer satisfaction guarantee means exactly that. We will fix any problems quickly and answer to your need every time. We are always available to help our customers; our service record is unmatched!
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
- Sharp and precise shears ideal for precision shaping of decorative topiary
- Compact design, ideal for both small and large hands
- Shorter blades allow closer, more precise cutting
- Good for working in confined spaces
- Carbon steel blades for lasting sharpness
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
- Powerful: Perfect for post-mowing touch ups in tight spaces, the Gracious Gardens two-in-one Cordless Hedge Trimmer, with a lightweight design at only 0.60kg the Topiary Shears boasts a 3.6 volt long-life lithium-ion battery hedge trimmer for hassle-free, cordless operation. Charge using the included USB Cable - No USB Plug Included
- 2 In 1 Interchangeable Blades: Combining two tools into one device, the Gracious Gardens hand held mini hedge trimmer features an interchangeable blade system that easily converts from a grass shear to a hedge trimmer. Both the 15.5cm grass shear blade and the 24cm hedge trimmer blade are constructed of durable steel for long-lasting wear and reliable performance. Cutting length for hedge trimmer function 120mm. Cutting thickness for hedge trimmer function 8mm, Cutting width for grass shear function 80mm.
- Cordless Small Hedge Trimmer: The Gracious Gardens hedge trimmer is cordless, which makes it easier to handle, simpler to manoeuvre, quicker to use and safer by removing the chance of cutting through a tangled up power cable. Comes with a rechargeable 3.6V 1300 mAh Lithium Ion battery, with a running time of approximately 60 minutes, With a No-load speed: 1000 rpm. Protection against harmful ingress of water: IPX1. Charging time: 3-5 hours.
- Time Saving: Designed to cut down gardening time. You can trim grass around ornamental trees, pavers, and flower beds with this edge trimmer. The battery hedge trimmers cordless is one ultimate garden tool that can be used both by professional and novice gardeners.
- Complete Package 2 Year Guarantee: The Gracious Gardens cordless hedge trimmers comes with a USB cable but no USB plug ensures you have everything you need to start trimming your garden immediately and we offer a 2 year guarantee for your added peace of mind.
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API / As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Frequently Asked Questions
What warranty can I get with topiary shears?
The warranties that you find with topiary shears varies massively on the quality of the product. We found some models that offer a warranty of up to 25 years, which gives super reassurance that you are purchasing a product made to last! There are also topiary shears that only have a one year warranty, so you can see there is quite a bit of variation depending on the manufacturer and the build quality.
How should I maintain my topiary shears?
Looking after your topiary shears is so important if you are wanting to get the best from them. The first thing that is most important is to ensure you remove any sap or dirt from the blades after each use. This will help to prevent rust from forming and from the blades sticking together. You also need to make sure to sharpen your blades occasionally when you find that they are becoming blunt. We would also recommend lubricating the moving joints of your topiary shears regularly to ensure a smooth, seamless cut every time.
What time of year should I trim my hedges and shrubs?
When using topiary shears we would recommend trimming once a year in early or late summer to keep the shape of the hedges that you are working with. If you have a considerable amount of growth one year then you could do a cut both early summer AND late summer, but for most shrubs this shouldn’t be necessary.
How do you sharpen topiary shears?
Many people will send their topiary shear blades away to be sharpened but it is actually very easy to do this yourself and will save you money in the long run! Start by cleaning the blades and using wire wool to remove any rust. Then use a sharpening stone or a diamond file to stroke along the blade in smooth movements to create a sharp edge – this will usually only take around 10/20 strokes for each blade so is a nice, quick job if you have the right tools!
Can you use topiary shears on indoor plants?
Technically there is no reason why you cannot use a topiary shear on your house plants – but they can be quite large so possibly a smaller shear would be a better idea!
-
Performance
-
Features
-
Ergonomics
-
Value
Be the first to comment