Pruner becoming dull quickly: Gardening tips

01.11.2023 11:20
Updated: 13.05.2024 21:22

To prune your garden trees effectively and safely, you should always use sharp pruners - that's a rule!

Meanwhile, sometimes pruners tend to become dull too quickly - but how is that possible?

Here are some reasons for that.

Regular Use

The more you use your pruner, the quicker it can become dull. 

As you snip through branches, stems, and twigs, the blade's cutting edge starts to wear down. 

pruner
Photo:Pixabay

This is just like how a pencil's point becomes blunt after writing for a while.

Plant Sap and Resin

Many plants produce sticky substances like sap or resin. When you cut through plant parts that contain these, they can cling to your pruner's blades. 

Over time, this sticky residue builds up and can make your pruner less sharp.

Dirt and Grime

Pruners come into contact with the outdoors, and that means they get dirty. 

Dust, dirt, and tiny plant particles can accumulate on the blade surface. 

These particles act like sandpaper and can grind down the blade's edge, causing it to lose its sharpness.

Rust

If you leave your pruner wet or expose it to moisture without proper drying and maintenance, it can develop rust. 

Rust eats away at the metal of the blades, making them less effective at cutting. It's like how rust can damage a bicycle left out in the rain.

Quality of the Blades

The material and quality of the pruner's blades play a big role. High-quality blades made from better steel or materials tend to stay sharp longer. 

Lack of Maintenance

Proper maintenance is like giving your car regular oil changes to keep it running well.

Conclusion

To keep your pruner sharp, clean it after each use, remove any sticky plant residues, apply a protective oil, and sharpen the blades when they start to show signs of dullness. 

Regular maintenance will extend the lifespan of your pruner and keep it cutting like new.
 

Kate Yakimchuk Author: Kate Yakimchuk Editor internet resource


Content
  1. Regular Use
  2. Plant Sap and Resin
  3. Dirt and Grime
  4. Rust
  5. Quality of the Blades
  6. Lack of Maintenance
  7. Conclusion