Types of secateurs
- Bypass secateurs: Feature two curved blades that slide past each other like scissors, delivering clean, precise cuts on live green plant tissue.
- Anvil secateurs: Have a sharp straight blade cutting against a flat metal or plastic anvil block, suited for cutting dry, dead wood and tough fibrous stems.
- Ratchet secateurs: Incorporate a multi-step ratcheting mechanism that allows users to cut through thicker branches with reduced hand fatigue.
Pruning techniques and best practices
- Make cuts at a 45-degree angle approximately one-quarter inch above an outward-facing bud.
- Slanted cuts prevent rainwater from collecting on the cut surface, lowering the risk of branch rot.
- Avoid twisting or forcing the tool through branches thicker than its rated capacity to prevent blade misalignment.
Cleaning, sharpening, and sanitization
- Wipe sap and plant juices off the blades with an oiled cloth after each day of pruning.
- Sanitize cutting surfaces between plants with isopropyl alcohol or mild disinfectant to avoid transferring plant diseases.
- Hone the cutting edge periodically using a fine whetstone or diamond file following the original factory bevel.
Official source
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ICAR - Central Institute of Subtropical Horticulture ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What is the difference between bypass and anvil secateurs?
Bypass pruners make scissor-like cuts on live green stems, while anvil pruners crush against a flat base for dead wood.
Why should secateurs be disinfected between trees?
Disinfecting prevents transmitting viral, bacterial, and fungal pathogens like canker from infected trees to healthy plants.
How do you prevent secateurs from rusting?
Clean sap thoroughly after use, dry completely, and apply a light coat of lubricating oil on metal parts and pivot bolts.
Can secateurs be sharpened at home?
Yes, sharpen the bevelled cutting edge with a fine whetstone, maintaining the original angle without grinding the flat back.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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