Prune Smart: Prune Safely
By Kay DiVerde
Did you know that pruning may be one of the most hazardous activities around your house? Imagine the possibilities: knife-sharp tools; unpredictable falling limbs; tangles of needle sharp branches; and work that often requires awkward stretching and even ladders for reaching. If you still want to tackle your own pruning then, by golly, do it safely! By following a few basic safety guidelines, you can effectively give your trees and shrubs the care they need without harming yourself. Most important of all, use common sense when using pruning tools; use sharp quality tools and recognize when you need help - hire a professional.
Dressing for the Job
Start your job with wearing protective eyewear, because slivers of wood and debris can easily blow into your eyes while you are pruning. It's also a good idea to wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Proper clothing can help save you from getting scratches on your arms and legs. Wear shoes (no sandals!) with good traction whether working on the ground or on a ladder and steel-toed boots when using power equipment. Thick gloves with rubber or leather grips are also recommended to prevent scratches on your hands and to help you maintain a good hold on your tools. If you are cutting overhead branches, consider wearing a hard hat in case a branch falls where you aren't expecting it. When using power equipment, wear earplugs.
Reaching New Heights
There are a number of wonderful tools that will let you reach heights of 20 feet or more without using a ladder to prune. Long reach pruners and loppers work similar to a hand pruners, however the blades are attached to one end of a pole and the squeeze handles on the other. Long reach tools come in variety sizes and functions and are excellent for cutting suckers and trimming branches of 1 inch or less. Pole saws are used for cutting larger branches and will give you the longest reach possible. Some pole saws feature a string mechanism to aid in cutting branches. The inexperienced pole pruner may want to avoid the string feature; because some technique is required to avoid getting it caught and tangled in branches.
Take Care when Using a Ladder
If you do decide you want to use a ladder for pruning, make sure it is sturdy and never stand on a chair. Recruit a partner or assistant to help steady the ladder, pass tools and to assist in the removal of branches and debris. Make sure the ladder's feet are positioned steady, without wobbling and don't climb to the top two steps of your ladder. For added stability you can rest the top of the ladder firmly against a sturdy branch or crotch. Using power equipment while on a ladder is never recommended.
Avoid Potential Hazards
Look at the surroundings carefully before cutting. Stay away from all power lines. Many utility companies will trim trees near power lines, so call before even thinking of doing it on your own. When using a pole saw or pruner, be sure to stand to the side of where you think the cut branches will fall. If you are using power equipment for cutting, keep note of where the power cords are, so you don't cut through them.
Work in Good Weather
Watch the weather. Stop pruning and get away from trees when it starts lightning. Never use power equipment for pruning after a rainstorm. The ground may be slippery. And more importantly, the wet ground and plants may cause electrocution.
Use Extra Care with Power Equipment
Pruning with a chainsaw offers the most potential danger. ALWAYS follow the guidelines and operating instructions in your owner's manual. Be sure to wear protective gear when using a chain saw. The use of chainsaws is not recommended if you are reaching above your shoulders to cut a branch or using a ladder.
When In Doubt, Consult a Professional
Don't hesitate to consult a professional arborist if you are uncomfortable with what needs to be done or if you don't have the proper equipment. A professional can evaluate your trees for insects and diseases. He can also work near power lines and on high branches easier than you may be able to. Know your limits and don't be afraid to call in assistance.
Use Professional Quality Tools
When thinking of safety, consider your plants' safety, too. Using quality tools will always give you a sharp blade to avoid ragged or torn bark.
Using the right tool for the right job will also ensure your safety and the plants' safety. Check out our pruners page to find the right pruner for your project. Follow the few simple safety guidelines mentioned in this article, and you're on your way to a safe and productive pruning experience!
Kay DiVerde is a freelance writer, horticultural researcher and consultant for Orchard's Edge. DiVerde also writes for a variety of newsletters and publications in the Midwest..
