Follow these handy tips to get the best from your hedge trimmer.

Keep it sharp.

Sounds obvious, but keep trimmer blades sharp. If cut branch tips appear ragged or light in colour, or if blades snag on the hedge, the blades are probably blunt and tearing rather than slicing material. Take the trimmer to a dealer for sharpening.

Keep it clean.

A blade that is not clean is not efficient. As a hedge is trimmed, sap builds up on the blades, setting hard like glue. Use an approved cleaner – like STIHL resin solvent – to keep blades in top condition.

Keep it in order.

Cut the vertical sides of a hedge first, using an upward sweeping motion and moving forwards along the hedge. When trimming the top of a hedge, angle the blades between 15° and 30° to the horizontal and use a horizontal scything motion to sweep cut material off the hedge.

Keep it safe.

Always use recommended protective clothing, and follow safety instructions when using a powered hedge trimmer.