Garden shredders

Garden shredders turn pruned branches and hedge or fruit tree clippings into chippings that are easy to compost or use as mulch. They suit homeowners and smallholders who look after their own plants. Our range includes over 10 models, among them BOSCH, RYOBI, ZIPPER and KARCHER.

How to choose a garden shredder

Power source. Corded electric models are usually quieter and need no fuel, but you can only work as far as your extension lead reaches. Cordless shredders suit a far corner of the plot without a socket, though battery capacity limits the working time. Petrol models are meant for large plots and thicker branches, but they are noisier and need more maintenance.

Shredding mechanism. Blade and turbine shredders quickly deal with dry, hard branches, but wet green waste and leaves can jam them. Roller-type models work more slowly and quietly, and they cope better with soft, fresh cuttings.

Branch thickness. The manufacturer states a maximum branch diameter. Choose according to the thickest branches you prune and leave some margin, because constantly working at the limit wears the blades and motor faster.

Noise and safety. Shredders are loud, so consider how close your garden is to neighbouring homes. Check for a reverse function to free jammed branches, a long enough feed chute to keep hands away from the blades, and a collection container that is easy to remove.

Maintenance. Blades wear in proportion to the amount of wood shredded, so find out whether spare blades are available and how they are replaced. Clean the shredding chamber after use, since damp chippings left inside cause corrosion.

Brands we carry

• BOSCH: has a dedicated green garden range that includes electric shredders for home gardens.
• RYOBI: known for its ONE+ 18 V battery system, where a single battery fits many tools from the same maker.
• ZIPPER: an Austrian manufacturer known for garden and workshop machinery.
• KARCHER: best known for cleaning equipment and pressure washers, and also makes garden machinery.
• MAKITA: a Japanese maker known for professional power tools and its 18 V LXT battery platform.
• EINHELL: a German manufacturer that brings its home and garden tools together under the Power X-Change battery system.

Also in our range: WUBER.

Garden shredder FAQ

How thick a branch can a garden shredder handle?

It depends on the model, so look for the maximum branch diameter stated by the manufacturer. Household electric shredders generally deal with thin to medium branches, while thicker wood usually calls for a more powerful electric or petrol machine.

Is an electric or a cordless shredder better?

For a small plot near the house, a corded electric model is usually enough, as it can run without breaks. A cordless one makes sense when you work far from a socket or already own batteries from the same maker that fit your other tools.

Can a shredder be used for leaves and grass?

Some models accept leaves and soft green waste, but many blade shredders jam on wet material. Read which types of waste the manufacturer permits, and let wet cuttings dry a little before shredding them.

What can I do with the shredded chippings?

Chippings work well as mulch under shrubs and in flower beds, as compost material or as a surface for garden paths. Fresh green chippings are best mixed with drier material so the compost does not turn sour.