Hedge trimmers and grass shears are made for keeping hedges, shrubs and lawn edges in shape, and they suit homeowners and keen gardeners alike. The category covers battery and corded electric hedge trimmers as well as grass shears. Our range has over 150 models, including BOSCH, GARDENA, MAKITA and EINHELL.
How to choose a hedge trimmer or grass shears
Power source. Our range includes both battery and corded electric models. Battery trimmers are not tied to a socket, which helps on a large plot, while corded models are usually lighter and run for as long as you need, but the cable limits your reach and has to be kept away from the blades.
Blade length. Long blades trim a long hedge faster but make the tool heavier. Shorter blades are easier to control on low hedges and shaped shrubs, and grass shears are meant for lawn edges and tight spots along walls.
Tooth gap. The gap between the blade teeth decides how thick a branch the trimmer can cut. A narrow gap leaves a neater cut on young shoots, while a wider one helps with an older hedge and thicker stems.
Weight and handling. Hedges are trimmed with outstretched arms, so weight becomes noticeable within a few minutes. Choose a model with a comfortable second handle and a safety switch that only lets the blades run when you hold the tool with both hands.
Battery platform. If you already own a MAKITA, EINHELL or other battery, look for a tool from the same system. The battery and charger can then be shared with your drill, saw or lawnmower.
Brands in our range
- BOSCH: makes green-line tools for home gardens and blue-line tools for professionals.
- GARDENA: a German garden equipment maker, also well known for its watering systems with interchangeable parts.
- MAKITA: a Japanese manufacturer famous for cordless tools, many of which share the same 18 V LXT batteries.
- EINHELL: created the Power X-Change system, in which a single battery fits many garden and workshop tools.
- DEWALT and METABO: both focus on professional power tools built for heavy daily use.
- BLACK+DECKER and RYOBI: aimed at DIY users, and RYOBI has the ONE+ 18 V battery system.
- FISKARS and WOLF-Garten: FISKARS is known for its orange-handled garden cutting tools, and WOLF-Garten for the Multi-Star system of interchangeable tools on shared handles.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between hedge trimmers and grass shears?
Hedge trimmers have longer blades and are made for shaping hedges and shrubs. Grass shears are smaller and trim lawn edges and grass that a mower cannot reach. If your garden has both a hedge and a lawn, the two tools often complement each other.
Should I buy a battery or a corded hedge trimmer?
A battery trimmer is more convenient on a large plot or far from a socket, because there is no cable to manage. A corded one is usually lighter and runs for as long as you need, so it suits a small garden close to the house. If you already own a compatible battery, a cordless model is often the easier choice.
When is the best time to trim a hedge?
Most hedges are trimmed in early summer, and fast-growing ones can get a second trim in late summer. Avoid trimming while birds are nesting in the hedge, and do not cut on a hot, sunny day, as freshly cut shoots can scorch.
How do I look after the blades of a hedge trimmer?
Wipe off sap and plant debris after every use, then apply a thin layer of blade oil. Sharpening the blades from time to time, or replacing them, keeps the cut clean. Always switch the tool off and remove the battery or unplug it before cleaning.
