Secateurs, also commonly known as hand pruners or pruning shears, are handheld scissor-like tools used to cut stems and small branches up to 2 centimeters in diameter. These essential gardening instruments are divided into two primary mechanical categories: bypass secateurs, which use two blades that slide past each other for clean cuts on living tissue, and anvil secateurs, which feature a single sharp blade closing onto a flat metal or plastic surface for tougher, dead wood. Originally invented in France around 1810 by Antoine-François Bertrand de Molleville, modern secateurs in 2026 have evolved to include ergonomic rotating handles, ratchet mechanisms for increased leverage, and lightweight carbon fiber or titanium-coated components.
The Core Types of Secateurs
Choosing the right tool is the difference between a healthy, thriving plant and one that is susceptible to disease and rot.
Bypass Secateurs
Bypass secateurs are the most popular choice for general gardening because they function like a pair of scissors, providing a precise, clean cut that facilitates quick healing. These tools feature two curved blades that slide past one another; the sharp upper blade “bypasses” the thicker lower jaw. Because they do not crush the stem, they are the gold standard for pruning live plants, roses, and green shrubs.
Anvil Secateurs
Anvil secateurs are designed for heavy-duty work on dead, dry, or woody material where the aesthetic of the cut is less important than the power behind it. They consist of a single sharp blade that chops down onto a flat, wide base (the anvil), functioning similarly to a knife on a chopping board. While highly effective for clearing scrub or brittle twigs, they should be avoided on soft, green tissue as they tend to crush the plant’s vascular system.
Ratchet and Power Pruners
For gardeners with weaker grip strength or those tackling particularly thick branches, ratchet secateurs offer a mechanical advantage by cutting in several stages. Power or electric secateurs, which have surged in popularity in 2026, use battery-powered motors to perform the cut at the pull of a trigger, virtually eliminating hand fatigue during long pruning sessions.
Maintenance and Sharpening
A well-maintained pair of secateurs can last decades, but neglected blades will dull, rust, and potentially spread fungal infections between plants.
Cleaning and Disinfection
After every use, you should wipe your blades with a damp cloth to remove sap and organic debris, followed by a quick spray of a disinfectant like isopropyl alcohol. Removing sap is crucial because it can harden into a sticky residue that causes the blades to bind or “gum up,” leading to jagged cuts.
Sharpening for Longevity
To sharpen secateurs, you should use a diamond file or a fine-grit whetstone, following the original bevel angle—usually between 20° and 30°. Only the outer side of the cutting blade should be sharpened; filing the flat “back” of the blade can create a gap between the jaws, ruining the tool’s effectiveness.
Oiling and Storage
Always apply a few drops of multi-purpose machine oil or camellia oil to the pivot point and the spring after cleaning. Store your secateurs in a dry place, ideally in a leather holster or hanging on a rack, to prevent moisture from causing rust on the carbon steel components.
Practical Information and Planning
Using secateurs effectively requires more than just a sharp blade; it requires timing and technique.
Typical Price Range: Budget models start around £15–£25, while professional-grade tools like Felco or Niwaki can cost £50–£120.
Where to Buy: Specialized garden centers, online retailers like Amazon, or direct from manufacturer websites for exclusive 2026 models.
Safety Gear: Always wear sturdy gardening gloves to protect against thorns and accidental nicks. Safety glasses are recommended when pruning overhead to avoid falling debris.
When to Prune: Most deciduous plants are best pruned in late winter or early spring while they are dormant. Flowering shrubs should generally be pruned immediately after their blooms have faded.
Seasonal Pruning Calendar
Spring: Focus on “deadheading” spent flowers to encourage a second flush of blooms and light shaping of evergreen hedges.
Summer: Use bypass secateurs to prune soft-fruit bushes like currants and to remove “suckers” from the base of trees.
Autumn: Clear away dead or dying perennials and prepare roses for winter by reducing their height to prevent wind-rock.
Winter: This is the primary season for hard pruning of fruit trees and wisteria using heavy-duty anvil or ratchet secateurs while the plants are dormant.
FAQs
What is the difference between secateurs and pruning shears?
There is no functional difference. “Secateurs” is the preferred term in British English, while “pruning shears” or “hand pruners” is more common in American English.
Can I use bypass secateurs on dead wood?
While you can, it is not recommended. Cutting hard, dead wood with bypass blades can cause the blades to twist or “spring,” leading to a permanent gap between them.
How often should I sharpen my secateurs?
For regular gardeners, sharpening once every few weeks or after a heavy session of pruning is ideal. If you notice the tool is tearing the bark rather than slicing through it, it is time to sharpen.
What are the best secateurs for small hands?
Brands like Felco (Model 6 or 12) and Burgon & Ball produce specialized “small hand” or “compact” versions of their flagship pruners for better control and comfort.
How do I remove rust from my secateurs?
You can remove light surface rust using fine-grade steel wool or a wire brush dipped in a bit of oil. For stubborn rust, soaking the blades overnight in white vinegar before scrubbing often works well.
Are left-handed secateurs available?
Yes, Felco 9 and Felco 10 are specifically designed for left-handed users, featuring an inverted blade orientation to allow for the same visibility and leverage as right-handed models.
What size branch can secateurs cut?
Most standard secateurs are rated for branches up to 20mm (roughly 3/4 inch). For anything thicker, you should switch to loppers or a pruning saw to avoid damaging the tool.
Why are my secateurs sticking?
This is usually caused by a build-up of dried sap or a lack of oil in the pivot joint. Clean the blades thoroughly with a solvent and apply a lubricant to the spring and screw.
Can I put my secateurs in the dishwasher?
No. The high heat and harsh detergents will ruin the blade’s edge, damage the handle coatings, and promote rapid rusting.
What is a “rotating handle” on secateurs?
A rotating handle (found on models like the Felco 7) moves with your fingers as you squeeze, reducing the friction and pressure on your palm, which helps prevent blisters and carpal tunnel syndrome.
How do I know if my secateurs are anvil or bypass?
Look at the blades: if the blades cross each other like scissors, they are bypass. If the sharp blade hits a flat, wide surface, they are anvil.
Should I oil the spring?
Yes. The spring is under constant tension and can become brittle or squeaky if not lightly lubricated with a rust-preventative oil.
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