Electrical trimmers make it easier than ever to keep your hedges well-shaped and visually appealing. But it's important to remember that trimmers are sharp pieces of machinery that require care and caution when handling. Here are a few tips for performing this task properly.

How to Trim Hedges With an Electrical Trimmer

1. Begin at the Bottom

Leave yourself plenty of time so that you don't have to rush through the trimming. Grip the equipment firmly, and wear safety gear like gloves, protective eyewear, and earplugs.

Start from the bottom of the hedge and work your way up. Position the trimmers against the outermost portion of the branches, no more than a few inches from the ends. Don't cut off too much along the bottom of the hedge; you can always go back and cut deeper if necessary.

2. Leave the Bottom Wider Than the Top

As you move up the hedge, cut deeper so that the bottom is wider than the top. Not only does this make for a more visually appealing shape, but it ensures the branches closer to the ground have clear access to sunlight.

If you neglect to cut in this shape, you risk the bottom branches dying, the entire hedge weakening, and the overall look diminishing. Again, move slowly as you work, and take frequent breaks to step back and assess your progress and the shape of the hedge.

3. Cut the Top of the Hedge Flat

A flattened top will make your hedges look perfectly manicured. Hold the trimmer horizontally and slowly guide it back and forth to shear off a few branches at a time from the top. If the top is inaccessible, consider investing in a trimmer with an extended reach so that you can easily shape the uppermost portion of the hedge.

An electrical trimmer cuts down on the labor-intensive process of trimming and gives you greater control over the shape of the finished hedge. When you're in the market for a trimmer, visit L & R Power Equipment Inc. Serving the Monroe, Trumble, East End, Shelton, and Fairfield, CT, area, they offer a comprehensive selection of outdoor power tools, including trimmers, chainsaws, blowers, and lawn mowers. Call (203) 268-8400 or visit them online to learn more about their current inventory.